Burden of Infectious Diseases in North East India: A Mini-Review

Abstract

North East India, with its unique geographical and cultural characteristics, bears a significant burden of infectious diseases. This mini review provides an overview of the prevalent infectious diseases in the region, highlighting the highest disease burden and the most endemic diseases. Malaria emerges as a major public health concern, with frequent outbreaks and substantial morbidity and mortality. Dengue fever, tuberculosis, Japanese encephalitis, Chikungunya, rickettsia diseases, waterborne enteric infections, hepatitis, and HIV/AIDS are also prevalent in the region. Challenges such as rugged terrain, limited transportation infrastructure, limited healthcare infrastructure, inadequate diagnostics, socio-economic factors and sharing of international border with four neighboring countries etc hinder disease control efforts. Strengthening vector control, improving diagnostics, expanding healthcare access, and raising community awareness are crucial strategies for reducing the burden of infectious diseases. Surveillance and research efforts are needed to enhance understanding and control of these diseases. Febrile illness like Scrub typhus stands out as the most endemic disease in the hilly regions, characterized by high prevalence, associated morbidity and mortality, and a lack of knowledge about its epidemiology and impact. Active surveillance is crucial to better understand the burden and distribution of the disease and address the challenges in the region.