http://whqlibdoc.who.int/hq/1999/WHO_CDS_99.1.pdf

This report provides an alarming assessment of the growing problem posed by infectious diseases. Drawing on the latest WHO statistics, the report cites evidence that the world has dangerously underestimated the threat bacteriaand viruses are posing to national security and economic growth, and may soon miss its opportunity to protect people from this risk.Apart from documenting the magnitude of the problem, the report also looks for explanations. Factors identified as contributing to the spread of infectious diseases include the growing problem of drug resistance, the emergence of new diseases, the expansion of international travel, and huge increases in mass population movements.