The role of social innovation in combating infectious diseases: A narrative review

• Author Details:   
• Rutuja Khobragade ^*

Infectious diseases continue to impose a considerable health burden globally, with low and middle-income countries bearing an unequal share. While traditional biomedical interventions remain critical, their effectiveness is often limited without the integration of broader social strategies. Social innovation in health has been fostering community-driven, inclusive and sustainable models for the prevention and management of infectious diseases. This review examines the evolving concept of social innovation in health, the mechanisms through which it operates, existing challenges, and future prospects. Recent initiatives in India, such as the Social Innovation in Health Initiative India Hub at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), have highlighted innovative models like community-led dengue surveillance systems and mobile health platforms for tuberculosis (TB) adherence that have significantly improved health outcomes in resource-limited settings. Furthermore, pilot projects integrating social entrepreneurship with public health goals, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrated the potential of grassroots innovation in strengthening health system resilience. Integrating social innovation with traditional biomedical approaches offers a powerful framework for constructing responsive, and equitable health systems to more effectively combat infectious diseases in India and beyond.