Animal-borne diseases pose a significant threat to global populations, surpassing the dangers posed by nuclear threats, terrorism, and natural disasters. The Covid-19 pandemic serves as a stark reminder, with over 690 million people worldwide affected by diseases transmitted from animals, resulting in approximately seven million deaths.
These pandemics can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Infections can occur directly or indirectly through animals, or they can be transmitted via intermediate animal species. Therefore, it is crucial to respond rapidly and effectively to new diseases and animal-borne illnesses to prevent their escalation.
Research has revealed that bats, in particular, harbour unknown diseases that can infect humans. Currently, more than 250 significant viruses are known to spread from animals worldwide. Avian influenza (bird flu), Ebola virus, and other animal-borne diseases have claimed a significant number of lives throughout successive eras. Even rabies alone causes the deaths of approximately 60,000 people each year.
Domestic pets, livestock, and wild animals can all carry and transmit animal-borne diseases to humans. Meat markets or the trade in wild animal products can introduce unknown viruses from various species, posing a significant risk to human health. Similarly, individuals residing near forests or urban areas with a high density of animals and pets are vulnerable to animal-borne diseases. Scientists are researching to develop new vaccines to combat these illnesses, such as anti-rabies vaccines.
Animal-to-human diseases not only impact human health but also have severe consequences for animals and their habitats. Such diseases can lead to reduced livestock productivity, increased animal mortality, and significant economic repercussions for livestock farmers and the overall state economy. It is therefore imperative to explore preventive measures to combat animal-borne diseases and protect the environmental well-being of society.
To minimize the risk of infection from animal-borne diseases, livestock farmers and individuals who come into contact with pets should adopt hygienic practices. This includes regular hand-washing before and after interacting with animals, avoiding kissing or allowing animals to lick their faces, refraining from sharing food with animals, and abstaining from consuming meat from wild animals. By adhering to these guidelines, lives can be saved, and the transmission of animal-borne diseases from one person to another can be prevented.
The prevention of animal-borne diseases is a paramount concern for safeguarding human health. The devastating impacts of past pandemics, including the ongoing Covid-19 crisis, underscore the urgent need for effective measures. By implementing proper hygiene practices and promoting scientific research and vaccine development, the risks posed by animal-borne diseases can be mitigated, ensuring a healthier and safer future for all.
