The vice-president of the Romanian Society of Epidemiology, Prof. Dr. Emilian Damian Popovici, warns of public health problems that may arise as a result of the flow of migrants. “They come from regions with high incidences of some infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, HIV, typhoid fever, cholera, viral hepatitis“, claims the doctor.
Refugees fleeing war PHOTO: shutterstock
“The issue of infectious diseases in refugees, migrants and asylum seekers has become an increasingly important concern for both public health officials and policy makers around the world. As these people leave their countries of origin due to armed conflict, persecution or other reasons, they may face numerous health-related problems, including the risk of contracting and transmitting infectious diseases.” draws the attention of Prof. Dr. Emilian Popovici, on his Facebook page.
According to the specialist, the influx of refugees and asylum seekers in destination countries has led to an increased focus on the health needs of these vulnerable populations.
“Many refugees and migrants come from regions with high incidences of some infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, typhoid fever, cholera, viral hepatitis, etc. In addition, conditions in some refugee camps and transit detention centers may facilitate spread
infectious diseasesfurther exacerbating the health risks they face,”
transmits Dr. Popovici, epidemiologist.
Lack of access to health services
One of the main challenges in dealing with infectious diseases in these categories of people is represented by the lack of access to health services, the doctor claims.
“Many of them may not have regular access to health services, which can delay the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. In addition, language barriers, cultural differences, and limited resources can further complicate efforts to provide adequate healthcare to these populations.”considers Prof. Dr. Emilian Popovici.
According to the specialist, the need to address the health needs of refugees and asylum seekers, including the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, has been increasingly recognized in recent years.
Major international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees are working to develop guidelines and protocols for addressing infectious pathology in refugee populations. In addition, many host countries have implemented programs to provide medical services to refugees and asylum seekers, including screening for infectious diseases and access to treatment.
“There are actually several strategies that can be implemented to address all of these challenges. First of all, there is a need for increased collaboration between the countries of destination of these people, international organizations, as well as non-governmental organizations to ensure that these population groups have access to appropriate health services. These services may include vaccines, screening for infectious diseases and access to treatment”claims the Vice President of the Romanian Society of Epidemiology.
“Secondly, there is a need for improved data collection and surveillance of infectious diseases in refugee communities. By better understanding the prevalence and distribution of infectious diseases in these population groups, public health professionals can develop targeted interventions to prevent and control the spread of these diseases“, adds Dr. Popovici.
Consequently, thirdly it is needed “increased investment in research and development of new tools and strategies to address infectious diseases in refugee populations. These include the development of new diagnostic techniques, new treatments and even vaccines tailored to the health needs of these populations.”
