Trend of emerging vector borne diseases in India: way forward

Abstract

There has been a drastic change in climate patterns in the recent past, the impact of which can be observed in the rapidly changing trend of many diseases particularly vector borne diseases. India has been endemic for many vector borne diseases namely malaria, filaria and kala azar. Implementation of strict public health measures and calculated strategies under the vector borne disease control program has been successful in controlling these diseases. However, the country is witnessing an emergence and increasing threat of new vector borne diseases in the form of Chikungunya, Nipah virus, Zika virus and others. This article discusses the epidemiological aspects of some important emerging vector borne diseases in the context of changing ecology and transmission pattern along with the public health implications, and way forward for preparedness to combat their further spread.