Tropical diseases are classified as a family of diseases prevalent in tropical and subtropical countries, usually initiated by pathogens; these include bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. A few examples include malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya, leishmaniasis, and schistosomiasis, which present significant challenges to public health, especially in low-resource environments. The 2nd Edition of the Infectious Diseases World Conference will discuss some key areas of advancement that can be realized in preventing, diagnosing, and treating tropical diseases. Among these are new vaccine development, the role of vector control, and new diagnostics. The world is also seeing better access to health care in its fight against tropical diseases as more public health education campaigns, among others, enhance funding for research.
Definition: Diseases common in tropical and subtropical regions caused by various pathogens.
Examples: malaria, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis, and chikungunya.
Prevention: vaccination, vector control with mosquito nets and insecticides, and improvement in sanitary measures.
Diagnosis: More rapid and low-cost diagnostic methods for early and effective detection.
Treatment: availability of effective drugs and new therapeutic methods.
Global Initiatives: International partnership for a reduction of tropical diseases, especially in less affluent regions.