Pandemics

In the third decade of the 21st century, two pandemics were preoccupying the world: HIV/AIDS and COVID-19, both viral infections that most likely originate from the animal kingdom. HIV/AIDS entered human consciousness as early as 1981 and quickly spread around the world. The infection is still neither curable nor preventable by vaccination, but it is well treatable. The goal of therapy is not only the health of the affected person but also the prevention of HIV transmission. In the context of global women’s health, the prevention of mother-to-child transmission is particularly important. COVID-19 can be severe in pregnancy and the hospitalization rate is increased. Therefore, a COVID vaccination during pregnancy is strongly recommended. The pandemic has led to significant collateral damage: Worldwide, access to medical facilities was difficult. This led, among other things, to delayed diagnosis and initiation of therapy in oncology patients.