- July 7, 2024
World Zoonoses Day: Understanding and Preventing Diseases Shared Between Animals and Humans

World Zoonoses Day: Understanding and Preventing Diseases Shared Between Animals and Humans
In recognition of World Zoonoses Day, celebrated annually on July 6th, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) in India is raising awareness about zoonotic diseases – infectious illnesses transferable between animals and humans. Examples include rabies, anthrax, influenza strains, Nipah virus, COVID-19, brucellosis, and tuberculosis. Caused by various pathogens like bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi, zoonotic diseases highlight the importance of differentiating them from non-zoonotic illnesses affecting livestock but not posing a threat to human health. Foot & Mouth Disease, PPR, Lumpy Skin Disease, Classical Swine Fever, and Ranikhet Disease fall under this category. This distinction is crucial for effective public health strategies to prevent unnecessary fear and stigmatization of animals.
India, with its massive livestock (536 million) and poultry (851 million) populations, constituting a significant portion of global figures, prioritizes animal health. The recent outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Kerala emphasizes biosecurity measures. Though ASF is not zoonotic, DAHD has implemented control measures like culling pigs near the epicenter and surveillance within a 10 km radius. There’s currently no vaccine for ASF.
Overall zoonotic disease prevention relies on vaccination programs (like Brucella and Rabies vaccinations under NADCP and ASCAD), good hygiene practices, proper animal husbandry, and vector control. A collaborative One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, is vital. This necessitates cooperation among veterinarians, medical professionals, and environmental scientists to comprehensively address zoonotic diseases.
DAHD’s initiatives include a nationwide Brucella vaccination campaign and rabies control programs. Additionally, a national surveillance plan for animal diseases and the National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) comprising experts from various ministries exemplify the One Health approach in action, particularly during outbreaks like Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
Public awareness is critical for early detection, prevention, and control of zoonotic diseases, ultimately safeguarding public health. Educating the public about the zoonotic vs. non-zoonotic distinction fosters informed decision-making regarding animal health and safety. While zoonotic diseases pose a challenge, recognizing non-zoonotic illnesses allows for targeted disease management practices, ensuring the well-being of both animals and humans, leading to a safer and healthier world for all.
#PublicHealth #Zoonosis #OneHealthApproach