What is the difference between disease elimination and disease eradication?

Disease elimination targets stopping transmission of a specific disease in a defined geographic area, while eradication aims for the permanent reduction to zero of the worldwide incidence of infection.

What diseases have been successfully eradicated globally?

Smallpox is the only human infectious disease to have been completely eradicated worldwide. Rinderpest, an animal disease, has also been eradicated. Polio and guinea worm are close to eradication.

What are the main strategies used in disease elimination efforts?

Key strategies include widespread vaccination campaigns, improved sanitation and hygiene, effective diagnosis and treatment, robust disease surveillance, and strong community engagement.

What challenges hinder disease elimination?

Challenges include vaccine hesitancy, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, political instability, insufficient funding, drug resistance, and the emergence of new variants or zoonotic diseases.