Viral Threats in Tropical Regions: Bridging Diagnostics, Immunology and Epidemiology

Climatic conditions in tropical and subtropical regions allow many emerging and reemerging pathogens and their vectors to thrive, resulting in increased health risks for populations in these areas. Among the leading threats are viral pathogens with pandemic potential. Unfortunately, many of these viral diseases are considered “neglected” due to their disproportionately devastating effects on low- and middle-income countries where diagnostics and surveillance capacity as well as immunological research are often limited despite the disease prevalence. However, with increasing globalization and ease of international travel, these tropical diseases are no longer just regional threats but represent a growing global concern. Moreover, with the current trends in climate change, experts predict that the geographical spread of these pathogens will continue to expand, underscoring the importance of strengthened surveillance and immunology research in tropical regions.

We aim to create a platform for showcasing new research findings, specifically on the surveillance, diagnostics and immunology of viral threats in tropical regions with a special focus on LMICs and recent emerging/re-emerging infections. Reporting of such data is largely routine in high-income countries, but immunoepidemiologic evidence for viral infections remain sparse or outdated in many LMICs. Exploring these aspects of viral infections can aid in the development of novel and locally-relevant diagnostic tests as well as in updating our understanding of their disease transmission. Disseminating such information is also crucial for improving public health interventions and strategies in combating these diseases. Moreover, while these viruses currently prevail in endemic regions, the significance of research on these pathogens holds importance not only for selected countries but also for global public health preparedness.

This Research Topic is open for submissions on viral infections occurring in tropical regions. We are particularly interested in studies on the latest emerging/re-emerging infections such as highly pathogenic influenza, monkeypox, etc. However, recent updates on other regionally-relevant viral threats are also welcome. We will also consider articles on viruses that may not be endemic to tropical regions but have been observed to be seasonal or sporadic threats.

Topic Editor Raul Destura is the founder and CEO of Manila Healthtek Inc. The other Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regard to the Research Topic subject.

Keywords: virology, emerging infectious diseases, neglected tropical diseases, diagnostics and surveillance, immunology

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.