Zoonoses
Zoonoses are infections and/or diseases acquired by humans from animals. They are distinct from anthroponoses that only involve humans, even if infected through an arthropod vector. Zoonoses make up a significant proportion of all emerging infections and are caused by a complete range of pathogens, including prions, viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and helminths. The emergence of zoonoses is in part determined by the concept of zoonotic “spillover,” whereby barriers that prevent access of zoonotic agents to humans are breached. Specific risks for emergence of zoonoses include origins in tropical forest regions; increases in mammal biodiversity; and changes in land use due to agricultural practices, residential encroachment, and urban development. Zoonoses can be acquired by direct animal contact, animal bites or scratches, bites or mechanical transmission from arthropod vectors, and consumption of contaminated food or water. The clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and treatments are specific for individual infectious agents and disease, but many can be prevented by appropriate use of vaccines, protective clothing, and other prophylactic measures.
