World Zoonosis Day, observed annually on July 6th, commemorates the pioneering work of French scientist, Louis Pasteur. On this day in 1885, Pasteur successfully administered the first vaccine against a zoonotic disease, marking a significant milestone in medical history. Today, World Zoonosis Day serves as an important platform to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases – illnesses that can be transmitted from animals to humans. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 60% of known infectious diseases and 75% of emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic.
Zoonotic Diseases: What Are They?
Zoonotic diseases are caused by harmful germs like viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi. These diseases have a devastating impact on both human and animal health worldwide.
There are four main types of zoonotic diseases based on the pathogens that cause them:
1. Bacterial Zoonoses, for instance, anthrax and brucellosis
2. Viral Zoonoses such as rabies, Ebola and Covid-19
3. Parasitic Zoonoses like toxoplasmosis and leishmaniasis
4. Fungal Zoonoses, with ringworm being an example
They can also be classified based on their animal hosts (wildlife or domestic animals) or mode of transmission (direct contact, vector-borne, or waterborne).
Why Do Zoonotic Diseases Occur?
Several factors influence the emergence and spread of zoonotic diseases. Environmental changes, interactions with wildlife, livestock farming practices, and human behavior all play a role. Encroachment into natural habitats and trade in wildlife, coupled with inadequate food safety measures and poor sanitation, are key contributors to the transmission of zoonotic diseases.
Prevention and Control of Zoonotic Diseases
Preventing and managing zoonotic diseases calls for a multisectoral approach. The “One Health” concept, which emphasizes collaboration across human health, animal health, and environmental sectors, is central to this strategic response. Early detection and surveillance systems, hygiene practices, vaccination programmes, and public awareness initiatives are critical components in the prevention and control of zoonotic diseases.
India’s Response to Zoonotic Diseases
India has implemented several significant initiatives to prevent and control zoonotic diseases. These include the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP), deployment of Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs), the enactment of Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, and a National One Health Programme for Prevention & Control of Zoonoses. A particular focus has been placed on achieving 100% vaccination coverage for certain zoonotic diseases in key livestock populations.
The One Health Concept
The One Health concept suggests that human health is interconnected with the health of animals and our shared environment. It calls for a collaborative approach among multiple sectors and disciplines to achieve optimal health outcomes. In the context of zoonotic diseases, the One Health approach underscores the importance of strong surveillance and response systems that can detect and mitigate threats at the intersection of humans, animals, and environmental health.