Climate change as a driver: infectious diseases in the upswing!

Climate change as a driver: infectious diseases in the upswing!

In the current discussion about the increase in infectious diseases, the effects of human activities on our environment take a central place. On July 10, 2025, Professor Dr. Claudia Denkinger, the head of the Department of Infection and Tropical Medicine at the Heidelberg University Hospital, give a lecture that deals with this area of ​​tension. In her lecture on July 24th from 7 p.m. in the lecture hall of the head clinic at Neuenheimer Feld 400, she will respond to the challenges that result from man -made changes, such as global warming, for pathogens of infectious diseases. According to Heidelberg , environmental changes can clearly Increase.

The explosive of this topic is also underlined by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), which in his newly published factual report “Climate Change and Health” notes that more than 50 % of infectious diseases could record increasing cases due to climate-related changes. This applies in particular to vector-associated infections that are transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks, as well as water and food-related diseases that are favored by rising temperatures. The challenges of climate change are unmistakable and need immediate and comprehensive measures. DGI emphasizes that regardless of climate change, infectious diseases are on the rise, especially among older people with a weakened immune system.

dangers from global mobility

Another aspect addressed by Professor Denkinger is the role of global mobility and cross -border trade, which promote the spread of pathogens such as polio and tuberculosis. The RKI has also shown alarming data about the continuing presence of the plague in some regions of Africa, America and Asia, which underlines the urgency of the topic. According to rki , the climate change is not only an environmental question.

In the context of these challenges, German health policy is required. Among other things, the DGI proposes to train new specialists in internal medicine and infectiousology in order to accommodate the increasing requirements. Many clinics are not only confronted with a lack of personnel, but also fight with the need to enable stronger integration of infectiologists into the treatment processes to improve the treatment results.

The importance of prevention and training

In order to cushion the risks of infectious diseases, prevention measures, such as vaccinations, are of great importance. This also includes the support of developing and emerging countries that are particularly affected by infection-related challenges. After her lecture, Ms. Denkinger will offer the opportunity to exchange and discuss. Interested parties have the chance to learn more about the future orientation of infection medicine, with a small snack provided to strengthen. Admission is free of charge, registration is not required, but the number of people in the lecture hall is limited for safety reasons.

on the upcoming event and the associated important topics can be excited. These questions are not only in the room, they also require concrete answers and approaches for future health care in Germany.