Tropical disease

Tropical disease (pronunciation: /ˈtrɒpɪkəl diːˈziːz/) refers to diseases that are prevalent in or unique to tropical and subtropical regions. The diseases are less prevalent in temperate climates, due in part to the occurrence of a cold season, which controls the insect population by forcing hibernation.

Etymology

The term "tropical disease" is derived from the Latin word "tropicus" meaning "of the tropics" and the Greek word "nosos" meaning "disease".

Related Terms

Infectious disease: Diseases caused by biological agents, which can be transmitted to others, rather than by genetic, physical or chemical agents.
Parasitic disease: Diseases caused by parasites, such as lice, mites, ticks, tapeworms or protozoa.
Vector-borne disease: Diseases transmitted by vectors, which are organisms that transmit pathogens and parasites from one infected person (or animal) to another.
Neglected tropical diseases: A diverse group of tropical infections which are especially common in low-income populations in developing regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Types of Tropical Diseases

Malaria: A mosquito-borne infectious disease that affects humans and other animals.
Dengue fever: A mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus.
Yellow fever: An acute viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes.
Chagas disease: A type of tropical parasitic disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi.
Leishmaniasis: A disease caused by protozoan parasites that belong to the genus Leishmania and is transmitted by the bite of certain species of sand fly.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of tropical diseases is a major aspect of public health. This includes measures such as vector control, vaccination, and the provision of safe water and sanitation. Treatment varies depending on the specific disease, but often includes medication, supportive care, and in some cases, surgery.