Emerging and reemerging diseases: An overview of the most significant outbreaks to date

Abstract

Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases have had a significant impact on world public health, most
of them being of zoonotic origin. This work aims to provide a historical and scientific overview of some of
the most significant outbreaks, from the outbreak of Black Death in antiquity to the COVID-19 pandemic
in the 21st century, highlighting their origins, transmission mechanisms, and their relevance in the context
of animal and human health. The importance of the “One Health” approach for the prevention of future
outbreaks is highlighted and it is concluded that epidemiological surveillance and preparedness for future
health emergencies are key to mitigate the impacts of these diseases