Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases in Iran: A Narrative Review of Causes, Challenges, and Policy Recommendations

Background: Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases have increasingly challenged public health in Iran, threatening both population health and economic stability. This review aims to identify the main causes and challenges associated with these diseases and propose strategies to improve health policy and national preparedness.Materials and Methods:  In this review, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, SID, and CIVILICA, up to March ۲۰۲۵. Relevant keywords in both English and Persian were used to identify research articles, reviews, and epidemiological reports focused on Iran. Two independent researchers screened and selected the studies, with any disagreements resolved through discussion to ensure consensus.Results: Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in Iran result from a complex interplay of environmental, social, and structural factors. Key causes include zoonotic origins, climate and geographic changes, rapid urbanization, increased mobility, behavioral shifts, declining vaccination coverage, weak health infrastructure, antimicrobial resistance, and regional political instability. These factors have led to challenges such as the spread of vector-borne and zoonotic diseases, emergence of novel viruses like COVID-۱۹, and rising antimicrobial resistance, complicating disease control efforts. The health and economic impacts include escalating healthcare costs, strained health systems, increased mortality and disability, reduced productivity, and widened health inequalities. These findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen regional cooperation and border health security to mitigate these threats effectively.Conclusion: Emerging infectious diseases pose significant threats to Iran’s health and economy. An effective response requires enhanced surveillance, rapid intervention, regional and international collaboration, increased public awareness, and the implementation of the "One Health" approach. Sustainable investment in health infrastructure, research, and education is essential to mitigate impacts and strengthen resilience against future outbreaks.

کلیدواژه ها:

Challenges ، Emerging infectious diseases ، Iran ، Re-emerging infectious diseases