World Zoonoses Day is celebrated annually on July 6. This day honours the contributions made by French biologist Louis Pasteur. On July 6th, 1885, he successfully delivered the first vaccination against the zoonotic disease rabies. The World Zoonoses Day celebration offers the chance to raise awareness of numerous zoonotic illnesses and effective preventative measures.
The theme of this year’s World Zoonoses Day is “Let’s Break the Chain of Zoonotic Transmission,” which is essential if we are to avoid the COVID-19 pandemic, which has already caused too much suffering. Let’s break the cycle and spread the word.
What is a Zoonotic Disease?
Zoonotic diseases are conditions that can spread from an animal or bug to a human. Some illnesses may not harm the animal, but they can make people sick. The illnesses may manifest as small, transient illnesses or as serious, irreversible disorders. According to reports, 60 % infections have an animal or insect as their primary source.
Zoonotic diseases are those that can spread from an animal or bug to a human being and are brought on by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. To date, a sizable number of zoonotic illnesses have had an impact on people. The COVID-19 epidemic might be the most recent illustration. According to the information that is now known and recognised, the pandemic is caused by a virus that is thought to originate from bats.
The Importance of Understanding Zoonotic Diseases
It’s a great idea to raise awareness of zoonotic illnesses on World Zoonoses Day. The majority of zoonotic infections may be prevented with appropriate prevention, therefore people can greatly benefit from increased awareness. According to studies, 75% of zoonotic infections in people are spread indirectly, such as through food. This suggests that with our attention, you may avert around 75% of zoonotic illnesses.
Animal and bird flu, bird flu, bovine tuberculosis, dengue fever, Ebola, and other zoonotic illnesses have had a major impact on people. By raising awareness of their causes and the effects they have on the human body, the majority of these may be avoided. Zoonotic illnesses can cause a person’s death in addition to making them sick. Awareness has the potential to save numerous lives.
How Can Zoonotic Diseases Be Prevented?
To stop the spread of zoonotic diseases, we must take several different steps. The government, for instance, can tighten food safety laws to stop the spread of disease through food. However, it is more crucial to comprehend what each of us can do on a personal level to protect our loved ones and ourselves against zoonotic diseases.
- Regularly wash your hands, especially before eating.
- Keep ticks, fleas, flies, and mosquitoes at bay. Adopting healthy habits like maintaining a clean home will help. Use some insect repellant as well.
- Use safe food handling techniques. Before eating, wash the fruits, vegetables, and grains. Cooked food should always be covered.
- Keep your distance from animals at all times. Consider your pets’ hygiene if you have any.
- When you are in close proximity to animals, especially your pets, avoid eating, drinking, and touching your mouth or eyes.