Emerging and Neglected Pathogens in the Balkans

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, we have witnessed an increase in the number of infections caused by emerging pathogens. Along with predominant emerging viral infections, a significant proportion of these cases are caused by both bacterial and parasitic pathogens. Considering the close geographical connection of these infections, neighboring countries often share similar patterns of disease transmission and epidemiology, which is also true for the Balkan region.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is the best example of how important it is to monitor the epidemiological situation in a certain area, to cooperate both at the national and international level, and to share information and experience to be better prepared for a possible infectious threat.

We are aware that infectious diseases have been for centuries one of the leading causes of death globally and that they represent an important threat to public health. However, the scientific spotlight is not evenly distributed to individual pathogens. In the medical community, there is a need to better characterize neglected pathogens and to gather knowledge and information regarding those infections in the Balkan area. It is of paramount importance that in these times of increasing climate change, we continue to focus on emerging pathogens to raise awareness of potential infectious agents when dealing with our patients. We must not forget the complex connection between humans, animals, and the environment. Many emerging infectious diseases are of zoonotic origin; thus, a One-Health approach is needed to better understand the interplay between animals, humans, and the environment. Namely, the epidemiology of zoonotic pathogens is continuously changing due to spreading into new areas, vectors, and hosts. As the number of emerging zoonotic pathogens is growing rapidly, knowledge regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnostics, and treatment of these pathogens needs continuous updating.

In this Special Issue, we would like to focus on all aspects of emerging and neglected pathogens in the Balkan area. Topics of interest include (but are not limited to) epidemiology, vector competence and ecology, disease pathogenesis, pathogen–host interactions, virulence factors, clinical aspects, immune response, and diagnostic methods. This Special Issue will also highlight the role of a multidisciplinary approach ('One Health') in the surveillance and control of zoonotic diseases.

Dr. Ljiljana Žmak
Dr. Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
Guest Editors

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• emerging pathogens
• neglected pathogens
• zoonoses
• epidemiology
• pathogenesis
• clinical aspects
• immune response
• diagnosis
• surveillance