Infective diseases in Israel. Changing patterns over 30 years.

Geography, climate, socioeconomic conditions and public health action are factors that have influenced the incidence and pattern of infective disease in Israel. During the British Mandate, the epidemiologic picture was dominated by tropical and subtropical diseases. The problems related to infective diseases and their control during the 30 years of Israel's statehood, especially those connected with the mass immigration of the 1950s, are examined in detail. Diphtheria, poliomyelitis and whooping cough were quickly brought under control by means of immunization programs, and measles, later and more slowly. Tuberculosis constituted a serious burden in the early years of the State but has been successfully subdued through the combined effects of BCG vaccination, screening, case finding, systematic chemotherapy and improved socioeconimic conditions. In contrast, diarrheal diseases--while eliminated as a major cause of infant mortality--are still highly prevalent in the general population. Some specific local infective disease problems of topical scientific interest are briefly discussed.