What role does climate change play in epidemiology?

Climate change is a major factor altering the epidemiological landscape. Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns can affect the life cycles and distribution of vectors, pathogens, and hosts. For instance, the spread of zoonotic diseases like Lyme disease is influenced by climate, as warmer temperatures allow ticks to thrive in new regions. Additionally, extreme weather events can disrupt healthcare infrastructure and sanitation, leading to outbreaks of diseases such as cholera.