Zoonosis

Zoonosis is a term used to describe the spread of diseases from animals to humans. Examples of zoonotic diseases include: rabies, hantavirus, salmonellosis, West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and the COVID-19 virus. Zoonotic diseases can be spread through direct contact with animals or their bodily fluids; by consuming contaminated food or water; or through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. Preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases is important for public health, and to ensure the health of both animals and humans. Prevention measures include: avoiding contact with wild or unfamiliar animals; washing hands thoroughly after handling animals; avoiding contact with animal droppings; andcooking meat and eggs thoroughly before consumption.