Objective  To understand the ecological factors in the origin process and transmission of communicable diseases, explore the complex relationship among the occurrence, development and transmission paths of communicable diseases, and provide a systematic perspective for the effective prevention and control of communicable diseases.

  Methods  Given the fact that a communicable disease epidemic results from complex ecological processes, the dynamic characteristics of the epidemic were summarized based on the viewpoint of system theory, and the interaction between the organism intrinsic factors and environment factors and social factors (biological and non-biological factors) were analyzed.

  Results  From a balanced perspective of sustainable ecological development, a biological-natural-social ecosystem framework was constructed based on the biological characteristics of pathogen genetic metabolism, the characteristics of natural environment in which pathogens survive and evolve, and the characteristics of social environment by which pathogens spread. On this basis, the modeling of transmission of communicable diseases was conducted for the research of disease transmission mechanism, analysis on the transmission of communicable diseases under different conditions and evaluation of related control measures.

  Conclusion  By clarifying the complex relationships in ecosystems resulting from biodiversity based on the construction of ecological framework, we can improve disease surveillance and response capabilities, provide scientific and feasible solutions for disease control and improve emergency management level.