ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we look at the general concept of emerging infectious diseases, and important examples of human pathogens that have appeared over the past 30 years or so. These diseases are important because they will have a great impact on health care in the future, and have socio-economic relevance locally and globally. Traveling and food have a role here, as well as climate change and bioterrorism. Emerging infections such as SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) not only make headlines but are also a wake-up call for the health care community. They remind us that there are always new and potentially dangerous diseases cropping up in various populations. We will also discuss re-emerging infectious diseases by taking a close look at influenza and tuberculosis.
