What Are the Implications of Climate Change on Disease Patterns?
Climate change is altering temperature patterns globally, which in turn affects disease epidemiology. Rising temperatures can expand the geographical range of vector-borne diseases, introducing them to new regions. For example, warmer climates in Europe and North America have facilitated the northward spread of diseases like West Nile virus and Lyme disease. Additionally, climate change can lead to more frequent and severe heatwaves, increasing the burden of heat-related illnesses.