Zoonoses

Zoonosis, also called zoonotic disease refers to diseases that can be passed from animals, whether wild or domesticated, to humans. Zoonoses are diseases and infections naturally transmissible from vertebrate animals to man by direct contact with infected animals, insects or animal excreta. While it is possible for anybody to become infected with a zoonotic agent, certain population groups such as the very young, the elderly and immuno-compromised are particularly vulnerable and at greater risk of more serious consequences. Some zoonotic infections can be avoided by immunising the animals that carry the disease. Pets and other domestic animals should have rabies vaccinations, and wild animals are immunized with an oral vaccine that is encased in a suitable bait. In some places, the bait is dropped by airplane over the range of the potential rabies carrier. When the animal eats the bait, they also ingest the oral vaccine, thereby protecting them from rabies, and reducing the risk of spread of the disease. This method has been used to protect foxes, coyotes, and other wild animals.