Assessment of Emergence, Economic Losses and Prevention of Zoonotic Infections

Abstract

Zoonotic diseases are emerging infections which can transmitted from animals to human and vice versa. Since decades, zoonotic infections such as monkeypox, buffalopox, camelpox, Covid-19, avian influenza virus, West Nile virus and Swine Influenza pose significant health concern which leading to substantial economic losses. This chapter will discuss all the aspects of zoonotic diseases regarding the emergence, economic losses, and preventive measures. The emergence of zoonotic diseases is a complicated process which is influenced by various sorts of factors such as climate, urbanization, deforestation, wildlife trafficking and human-animal interactions. The outbreak of zoonotic infections results in economic losses such as treatment, medical expenses, containment efforts, low productivity, trade restrictions and limited tourism. The pandemic Covid-19 serves as glaring example which adversely effect the world economies. Therefore, the prevention of these infections is indispensable to maintain the livelihood of human and animals. Various strategical measures such as surveillance, early detection systems, social distancing, isolation from infected person or animal, and vaccination can mitigate the risk of getting zoonotic diseases. Furthermore, strong collaboration between animal and human health sectors can facilitate the timely sharing of resources and information. Moreover, enhancing biosecurity measures such as trade of livestock and wildlife, animal trafficking, research and development of vaccines, modern diagnostic techniques and various sorts of therapeutic agents can limit the development of zoonotic diseases. In conclusion, zoonotic outbreaks have emerged, challenging, and inflicting substantial economic losses as well as affecting human health. However, by following aforementioned strategical measures, we can strive toward minimizing the occurrence of zoonotic diseases.