Emerging Infectious Diseases at the Clinic-Clinical Lab-Research Lab Interface

Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases have been a constant companion of medicine since its onset. In this commentary, we will discuss the multiple manifestations of disease emergence, mechanisms by which novel pathogens or strains emerge, and the practical implications for physicians as they apply to diagnostic, treatment, and control strategies. Finally, we will highlight the ways in which connections between the clinic, the clinical laboratory and the research laboratory lead to major discoveries in emerging diseases, with special emphasis on COVID-19.