The Impact of Climate Change on the Spread of Environment-Based Infectious Diseases

Abstract

Climate change is increasingly recognized as a critical driver of infectious disease dynamics, particularly in tropical regions where climatic variability directly influences vector biology and pathogen transmission. Indonesia, as an archipelagic nation with rich biodiversity and vulnerable ecosystems, faces heightened risks from diseases such as malaria, dengue, leptospirosis, and cholera. This study aims to investigate the relationship between climate change and the spread of environment-based infectious diseases by synthesizing scientific evidence through a qualitative literature review. The research uses systematic content and thematic analysis of studies published between 2019 and 2024, drawing from credible academic sources and global health institutions. Results reveal that rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events such as floods and droughts significantly influence the distribution and intensity of vector-borne and waterborne diseases. High temperatures accelerate vector reproduction and pathogen incubation, while erratic rainfall fosters breeding grounds and overwhelms sanitation systems. These climatic influences are further exacerbated by socio-economic vulnerabilities, such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure and high population mobility. Furthermore, integration of climate and health data is shown to significantly enhance disease surveillance and prediction. Case studies from the Andes, Amazon Basin, and Southeast Asia demonstrate that early warning systems combining meteorological data and epidemiological patterns can improve outbreak response. Despite these advances, data silos and limited interdisciplinary collaboration remain challenges. The study underscores the need for policy interventions that integrate environmental and public health strategies, strengthen local resilience, and invest in predictive analytics for climate-sensitive diseases.