The Comprehensive List of Infectious Diseases Released by the World Health Organization

In today’s world, it is crucial to stay informed about the various infectious diseases that pose a threat to global health. The World Health Organization (WHO) is at the forefront of monitoring and responding to these diseases, providing valuable information and guidance to countries and individuals. Among the most well-known infectious diseases are influenza, Ebola, tuberculosis, malaria, cholera, pneumonia, dengue, and HIV/AIDS.

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can lead to severe complications, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.

Ebola is a viral disease that causes severe illness and often death. It is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals and can then spread between humans through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or contaminated surfaces.

Tuberculosis is an airborne bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. It is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide and can be spread when an infected individual coughs or sneezes, releasing bacteria into the air.

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, causing significant morbidity and mortality.

Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease that can be deadly if left untreated. It is caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which thrives in unsanitary conditions and can spread rapidly in crowded areas or during natural disasters.

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, causing cough, fever, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, can lead to hospitalization or death. It can be caused by various infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that causes flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, and rash. In severe cases, it can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be life-threatening.

HIV/AIDS is a chronic viral infection that attacks the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to other infections and diseases. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, the sharing of needles, or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

By understanding the nature, transmission, and preventive measures of these infectious diseases, individuals can better protect themselves and contribute to the global effort in controlling their spread. The WHO plays a vital role in educating the public, coordinating interventions, and fostering collaboration among countries to combat these diseases and ultimately safeguard public health.

List of WHO Infectious Diseases

• Cholera
• Ebola
• Dengue
• Influenza
• Malaria
• Zika
• Tuberculosis
• HIV/AIDS

Respiratory Diseases

Respiratory diseases are a group of diseases that affect the respiratory system, which includes the lungs, airways, and other parts of the body involved in breathing. These diseases can range from mild to severe and can be caused by different pathogens.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. TB is a major global health problem, with millions of new cases occurring each year.

Ebola

Ebola is a viral hemorrhagic fever that can cause severe illness and death in humans and other primates. It is caused by the Ebola virus. While Ebola is primarily transmitted through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected individuals, respiratory transmission can also occur.

Zika

Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus that was first identified in Uganda in 1947. It can cause mild to severe illness, including birth defects in babies born to infected mothers. While Zika is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, it can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets.

Cholera

Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. However, respiratory transmission can also occur through respiratory droplets generated during vomiting.

Malaria

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by parasites of the Plasmodium genus. It can cause fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms. While malaria is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, severe cases can lead to respiratory distress and lung complications.

Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and can lead to complications, especially in young children and older adults. Influenza is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a condition that weakens the immune system. While HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, respiratory transmission can occur through respiratory droplets in certain situations.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Pneumonia can range from mild to severe and can be life-threatening, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. It is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets.

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections that are commonly spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and can have serious health consequences if left untreated.

Common Sexually Transmitted Infections

There are several common sexually transmitted infections that can affect both men and women:

Infection	Description
Pneumonia	A bacterial infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact.
Ebola	A viral infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact and other means of direct contact with bodily fluids.
HIV/AIDS	A viral infection that attacks the immune system and can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing needles, and other means of direct blood contact.
Zika	A viral infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact and mosquito bites.
Cholera	A bacterial infection that can be transmitted through contaminated water and food, but can also be spread through sexual contact.
Malaria	A parasitic infection that is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, but can also be transmitted through blood transfusion and sexual contact.
Influenza	A viral infection that can be transmitted through respiratory droplets, but can also be spread through sexual contact.
Dengue	A viral infection that is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, but can also be transmitted through blood transfusion and sexual contact.

It is important to practice safe sex and get regularly tested for sexually transmitted infections to prevent the spread of these diseases and protect your own health.

Vector-Borne Diseases

Vector-borne diseases are infections that are transmitted to humans and animals by vectors, such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and flies. These vectors can carry and spread various diseases, including:

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. TB is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Ebola

Ebola is a highly infectious viral disease that is transmitted to humans through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected animals or people. The virus can cause severe illness and has a high fatality rate.

Zika

Zika virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes species. Infection during pregnancy can cause severe birth defects, including microcephaly.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Pneumonia can spread through respiratory droplets, including those released when a person coughs or sneezes.

Cholera

Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water. It is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae and can spread rapidly in areas with inadequate sanitation and hygiene.

Malaria

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It can cause high fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms.

HIV/AIDS

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells. It is primarily spread through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Dengue

Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes species. It can cause severe flu-like symptoms and, in some cases, develop into a potentially life-threatening condition called severe dengue.

Foodborne Diseases

Foodborne diseases are illnesses caused by consuming contaminated food or beverages. These diseases can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins present in the food we eat. It is important to practice proper food handling, storage, and preparation to avoid these diseases.

Cholera

Cholera is a bacterial infection caused by the consumption of contaminated water or food. It can lead to severe diarrhea, dehydration, and even death if left untreated. Proper sanitation and access to clean water are crucial in preventing the spread of this disease.

Ebola

Ebola is a rare but severe viral disease that is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, such as fruit bats or monkeys, or through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected people. It can cause fever, severe internal bleeding, and organ failure. Strict infection control measures are necessary to prevent the spread of Ebola.

Other foodborne diseases that can pose a risk to human health include:

• Dengue
• Zika
• Influenza
• Tuberculosis
• HIV/AIDS
• Malaria

These diseases can have serious health consequences, and it is important to be aware of the risks and take appropriate precautions when handling and consuming food.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a type of infectious disease that affects the liver. It can be caused by different viruses, including hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and hepatitis E. These viruses are transmitted through contact with contaminated food or water, or through blood and other bodily fluids.

Hepatitis can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). In severe cases, it can lead to liver failure and even death.

The prevention of hepatitis involves practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly, avoiding contaminated food and water, and practicing safe sex. Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and hepatitis B to prevent infection.

It is important to note that hepatitis is different from other infectious diseases such as Zika, pneumonia, Ebola, influenza, HIV/AIDS, malaria, dengue, and cholera. Each of these diseases has its own unique causes, symptoms, and prevention methods.

Virus	Transmission	Symptoms	Prevention
Hepatitis A	Contaminated food or water	Fever, fatigue, jaundice	Vaccine, good hygiene
Hepatitis B	Blood, bodily fluids, sexual contact	Fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice	Vaccine, safe sex, avoid sharing needles
Hepatitis C	Blood, bodily fluids, sexual contact	Fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice	Avoid sharing needles, safe sex
Hepatitis E	Contaminated food or water	Fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice	Avoid contaminated food and water

Overall, hepatitis is a serious infectious disease that can have serious consequences if not properly prevented and managed.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a viral infection that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which play a crucial role in fighting off infections. HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a condition in which the immune system is severely compromised, making individuals more susceptible to opportunistic infections and cancers.

HIV can be transmitted through various routes, including sexual contact, blood transfusions, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. It cannot be transmitted through casual contact, such as hugging or shaking hands.

While there is no cure for HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can slow down the progression of the virus and improve the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS. It is important for individuals at risk of HIV to get tested and seek early treatment to prevent the development of AIDS.

Common infectious diseases	Related Articles
Tuberculosis	Learn more
Zika	Learn more
Influenza	Learn more
HIV/AIDS	Learn more
Malaria	Learn more
Cholera	Learn more
Pneumonia	Learn more
Ebola	Learn more

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body such as the kidneys, spine, and brain.

Just like Zika, pneumonia, dengue, Ebola, HIV/AIDS, malaria, influenza, and cholera, tuberculosis is a global health threat. It is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

TB is a leading cause of death worldwide, with an estimate of 1.5 million deaths in 2018. It is especially prevalent in low-income countries and among people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS.

Early symptoms of tuberculosis include coughing, fatigue, weight loss, and fever. If left untreated, it can be deadly. However, tuberculosis can be cured with a combination of antibiotics taken for a prolonged period of time.

Efforts to control and eliminate tuberculosis include improved diagnostics, treatment, and prevention strategies. Vaccines, such as the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, are also available to prevent severe forms of the disease.

It is important to raise awareness about tuberculosis and promote early diagnosis and treatment. With global efforts and collaboration, it is possible to reduce the burden of tuberculosis and prevent further spread of the disease.

Malaria

Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite. It is transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Malaria is a serious global health problem, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Symptoms of malaria include high fever, chills, sweating, headache, and body aches. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications and even death. The disease can be prevented by using bed nets, insecticides, and antimalarial drugs.

Malaria is one of the major infectious diseases worldwide, alongside diseases such as Ebola, influenza, Zika, cholera, dengue, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS. Efforts to control and eliminate malaria have been ongoing for many years, but it remains a significant health challenge in many parts of the world.

Disease	Vector
Malaria	Mosquitoes

Influenza

Influenza, also known as the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the influenza virus and is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Unlike other infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, cholera, dengue, Ebola, and Zika, influenza is a seasonal illness that occurs primarily during the winter months in temperate regions. However, it can also occur year-round in tropical regions.

Symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, and headache. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia and can be life-threatening, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

The best way to prevent influenza is by getting an annual flu vaccination. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that protect against the specific strains of influenza virus that are expected to circulate during the upcoming flu season.

In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene is important to prevent the spread of influenza. This includes washing hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, and staying home when feeling unwell.

Antiviral Medications

In some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed to treat influenza. These medications can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if taken early in the course of the illness.

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have influenza, especially if you are at higher risk for complications. Your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate treatment and provide guidance on managing symptoms.

Influenza can cause significant illness and even death, but with proper prevention and treatment, the impact of this infectious disease can be minimized.

Cholera

Cholera is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is characterized by severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. Cholera is mainly spread through contaminated water and food, typically in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene.

The symptoms of cholera can appear within a few hours to five days after infection. It is estimated that there are millions of cases of cholera worldwide each year, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths.

Causes

Cholera is caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The bacterium produces a toxin that affects the intestines, leading to the characteristic symptoms.

Prevention and Treatment

The best way to prevent cholera is through improved sanitation and hygiene practices, as well as access to safe drinking water. Vaccines are also available to protect against cholera.

Disease	Vector
Zika	Mosquitoes
Malaria	Mosquitoes
Ebola	Direct contact with bodily fluids
Pneumonia	Various pathogens
Cholera	Contaminated water and food
Dengue	Mosquitoes
Tuberculosis	Airborne droplets
HIV/AIDS	Sexual contact, contaminated blood

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Caribbean. Dengue fever is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and fatigue.

Dengue fever is often mistaken for other infectious diseases such as malaria, pneumonia, HIV/AIDS, Ebola, tuberculosis, Zika, and cholera due to similar symptoms. However, there are distinct differences in the clinical presentation and course of each disease.

Prevention and control of dengue fever primarily involve vector control measures, such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites and using insecticides. There is no specific treatment for dengue fever, and management mainly focuses on alleviating symptoms and providing supportive care.

Public health officials and governments worldwide closely monitor dengue fever as it can cause significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in severe cases. Early detection and effective public health responses are crucial in preventing and controlling dengue fever outbreaks.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease caused by the yellow fever virus. It is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, especially the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Yellow fever is endemic in parts of Africa and South America, with periodic outbreaks occurring in various countries.

The symptoms of yellow fever include fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). In severe cases, yellow fever can lead to organ failure, bleeding, and even death. There is no specific treatment for yellow fever, but a vaccine is available to prevent the disease.

Yellow fever is often confused with other diseases such as influenza, Ebola, malaria, tuberculosis, Zika, HIV/AIDS, dengue, and pneumonia due to the similarity of symptoms. It is important to get a proper diagnosis to receive appropriate care and treatment.

Prevention of yellow fever includes avoiding mosquito bites, especially in areas with known yellow fever transmission. Mosquito control measures such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and staying in air-conditioned or screened-in areas can help reduce the risk of infection. Travelers to areas with yellow fever should also consider getting vaccinated before their trip.

Overall, yellow fever is a serious disease that can have severe consequences. Taking preventive measures and seeking medical attention if symptoms occur are crucial in controlling and managing the disease.

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by the measles virus. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets and can spread easily from person to person. Measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis.

Measles can be prevented through vaccination. The measles vaccine is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule and is highly effective at preventing the disease. However, measles outbreaks still occur in areas with low vaccination rates.

Measles is characterized by a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. It can be particularly dangerous for young children and people with weakened immune systems.

Measles should not be confused with other infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, influenza, pneumonia, Zika, cholera, dengue, or Ebola. Each of these diseases has its own distinct symptoms, transmission methods, and prevention strategies.

If you suspect that you or someone you know has measles, it is important to seek medical attention and follow the advice of healthcare professionals. Measles can be serious, but with proper medical care and isolation, most people recover fully.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a common infectious disease that affects the lungs. It is caused by various bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It can be transmitted through the air or by direct contact with an infected person. Pneumonia can lead to severe respiratory symptoms and can be life-threatening, especially in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Pneumonia is characterized by symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. It can be diagnosed through a physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests such as chest X-rays and blood tests.

Treatment for pneumonia usually involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria or other infectious agents causing the infection. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required. Vaccines are also available to prevent certain types of pneumonia, such as the pneumococcal vaccine.

Pneumonia can occur as a complication of other infectious diseases, such as dengue, Ebola, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, influenza, Zika, and cholera. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of pneumonia or if you have been exposed to someone with the disease.

Ebola

Ebola is a highly infectious disease caused by the Ebola virus. It belongs to the family Filoviridae, along with the Marburg virus. The main symptoms of Ebola include fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat. These are followed by vomiting, diarrhea, rash, impaired kidney and liver function, and in some cases, internal and external bleeding. Ebola is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, such as fruit bats or monkeys, and spreads through human-to-human transmission via direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals.

The Ebola virus was first identified in 1976 during an outbreak near the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since then, there have been several outbreaks in Africa, with the largest and most significant outbreak occurring between 2014 and 2016, primarily in West Africa. This outbreak resulted in over 28,000 cases and more than 11,000 deaths.

Prevention and Control

Preventing the spread of Ebola involves implementing strict infection control measures, such as isolating infected individuals, wearing protective clothing, and practicing proper hygiene. There is currently no specific treatment for Ebola, but supportive care can help improve the chances of survival. Experimental treatments and vaccines are being developed and tested.

Impact

Ebola has had a devastating impact on affected communities, causing not only loss of life but also social and economic disruption. Its high mortality rate and the fear of transmission have led to stigmatization and discrimination of survivors and affected populations. Additionally, healthcare systems in affected countries have been overwhelmed, making it difficult to provide adequate care for Ebola patients as well as other healthcare needs.

Ebola is a reminder of the importance of strong healthcare systems, effective outbreak response mechanisms, and international cooperation in combating infectious diseases. While progress has been made in understanding and controlling Ebola, ongoing vigilance and preparedness are essential to prevent future outbreaks and minimize their impact.

Zika Virus

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne viral disease that is primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It was first identified in Uganda in 1947 in monkeys through a network that monitored yellow fever. It was later identified in humans in 1952 in Uganda and Tanzania. Outbreaks of Zika virus have been reported in tropical Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

The most common symptoms of Zika virus infection are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week. Severe disease requiring hospitalization is uncommon. Infection during pregnancy can cause birth defects and neurological complications.

Zika virus is related to other viruses that cause dengue, yellow fever, and West Nile fever. There is no specific treatment or vaccine currently available for Zika virus. The best form of prevention is protection against mosquito bites. This can be done by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and staying in air-conditioned or screened-in areas.

Polio

Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the poliovirus. It primarily affects children under the age of five and can lead to paralysis or even death in severe cases.

The virus is transmitted through consumption of contaminated food and water, or through direct contact with an infected person’s feces. Polio can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck and pain in the limbs.

Although highly effective vaccines are available to prevent polio, it remains a persistent threat in some parts of the world, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been leading efforts to eradicate polio globally through vaccination campaigns and surveillance.

Prevention:

The primary method of preventing polio is through vaccination. The polio vaccine is typically given in multiple doses, with the first dose given at two months of age. Additional doses are administered at four months, six to 18 months, and four to six years of age.

For adults who have not been vaccinated, a one-time catch-up vaccination may be recommended. Travelers to areas where polio is endemic or outbreaks have occurred should also ensure they are up to date with their polio vaccinations.

Treatment:

There is no specific treatment for polio. Supportive care is provided to help manage symptoms and prevent complications. This may include pain relief medication, physical therapy to maintain muscle strength, and assistive devices for mobility.

As with other infectious diseases such as Ebola, cholera, Zika, pneumonia, tuberculosis, dengue, HIV/AIDS, and malaria, practicing good hygiene and sanitation can also help reduce the risk of polio transmission.

Question and answer:

What is the World Health Organization?

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. It is the directing and coordinating authority for health within the UN system.

What are the most common infectious diseases?

The most common infectious diseases include respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever.

What is the purpose of a complete list of infectious diseases?

A complete list of infectious diseases helps researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers understand and track the prevalence of different diseases. It also helps in developing strategies for prevention, control, and treatment.

Can you provide examples of zoonotic infectious diseases?

Yes, some examples of zoonotic infectious diseases are Ebola virus disease, COVID-19, and avian influenza.

How does the World Health Organization respond to infectious disease outbreaks?

The World Health Organization responds to infectious disease outbreaks by providing technical support, coordinating international efforts, and mobilizing resources. It also provides guidance on prevention, surveillance, and control measures.

What is the World Health Organization (WHO)?

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. It works to coordinate and promote health activities, provide technical assistance and guidance on health matters, and set international standards for health-related issues.

What are infectious diseases?

Infectious diseases are disorders caused by organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that enter the body and cause illness. These diseases can spread from person to person through direct or indirect contact, or through vectors like mosquitoes or ticks.