Impact of climate change and weather variability on viral pathogens in food and water.

Abstract: Climate changes, in particular global warming, will have a profound effect on world water resources and food production. Microbial contamination and chemical pollution have a considerable impact on human health and reduce the safety of food production. Regional short-term changes, such as flooding, hurricanes and other extreme weather conditions, are also expected to become more common, and the increasing global population will cause many new demands. Countries with solid economies and strong regional infrastructures will cope better with catastrophe than will developing countries, and increasing global collaboration is needed to meet future challenges.