Zoonos: transfer of illness between animals and humans

Zoonos: transfer of illness between animals and humans

in zoonoses

zoonoses are diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. They represent a significant proportion of all infectious diseases and can adopt both endemic and pandemic dimensions. In recent decades, many of the newly occurring infectious diseases have been zoonoses in humans. Examples of this are the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), bird flu, Ebola or the currently widespread disease Covid-19.

causes and distribution of zoonoses

Zoonoses can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and prions. They can be transferred directly to humans by animals or animal products or indirectly via environmental media such as water, soil and air. In some cases, vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks or fleas also contribute to the transmission.

direct transmission

Direct transmission takes place when people have close contact with sick or infected animals. This can be done through bites or scratches, but also through contact with animal secretions or outlets. In some cases, the infection can also be used by consuming raw or inadequate cooked meat or other animal products.

indirect transmission

In the indirect transmission, the pathogens come to humans via environmental media. You can occur in the water, the soil or in the air. A good example of this is the bird flu that can spread through contaminated water.

vector transmission

In some cases, insects or other small animals act as vectors that transfer diseases from animals to humans. A well-known example is Lyme disease that is transmitted by ticks.

known zoonoses and their effects

There are a variety of zoonoses that can lead from minor to severe clinical pictures. Some of the best known and most important ones are presented below.

rabies

Garwut is one of the best -known zoonoses and is transmitted by a virus that attacks the central nervous system. It is usually transferred to humans by bites of wild animals, especially foxes and bats. An infection is almost always fatal if there is no immediate medical care.

e. Coli

E. coli is a bacterium that usually lives in the human intestine and is harmless. However, some tribes can cause severe bowel diseases. The infection is usually used by consuming contaminated meat or vegetables.

bird flu

The bird flu, also called aviary influenza, is a viral infection that occurs primarily in birds but can also be transferred to humans. It can cause severe pneumonia and are fatal.

Covid-19

Covid-19 is a disease caused by the Sars-COV-2 virus. It is believed that the virus was originally transferred to humans by bats. The disease is characterized by symptoms such as fever, dry cough and breathless in the event of difficult courses.

prevention and combating zoonoses

Prevention and combating zoonoses is a major challenge because it requires close cooperation between healthcare, veterinary medicine and environmental experts. This includes measures such as the regular monitoring of game and house animal populations, improving the food security standards and the elucidation of the public about risks and protective measures.

monitoring of animal populations

One of the most important measures to prevent zoonoses is to monitor animal populations. This includes regular tests on pathogens, vaccination programs and the control of animal movements.

Improvement of food safety

The production, processing and distribution of food plays a crucial role in the prevention of zoonoses. Food safety standards and controls can help minimize the risk of transmission of pathogens.

Education of the public

Another important measure is to clarify the public about the risks of zoonoses and the necessary protective measures. This includes the mediation of information about the safe handling of animals and animal products as well as about hygiene measures and vaccination recommendations.

conclusion

Zoonoses represent a considerable threat to human health and have repeatedly led to serious outbreaks of illness in the past. Their control requires interdisciplinary cooperation as well as consistent and comprehensive monitoring of animal populations and food production. Education to the risks and protective measures is another important contribution to the prevention of zoonoses.