ABSTRACT

The concept that climate change can and does affect infectious-disease ecology makes intuitive sense. People without an understanding of epidemiology can appreciate that the occurrence and distribution of infectious disease varies under different environmental circumstances, even if they may not understand why this is the case. This chapter articulates the complexities and mechanisms of climate change's influence on animal infectious disease using current examples. It then offers strategies and a real-time example for incorporating this knowledge into animal health practice. Further, it challenges readers to seek understanding and cross-disciplinary relationships with managers and policy makers to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and action.