Zoonoses are infectious diseases that are transmitted from animals to humans. These diseases are caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi and can be spread through animals such as pets, livestock, and wildlife. Since the types of diseases transmitted can vary greatly, from mild illnesses to life-threatening conditions, zoonotic diseases require attention and vigilance.

Types of Zoonotic Diseases

The number of zoonotic diseases is steadily increasing. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 60% of the infectious diseases reported globally are zoonotic in nature. Furthermore, the WHO states that approximately 75% of new diseases identified over the past three decades have also been zoonotic.

Some of the zoonotic diseases commonly found include:

1. Coronavirus

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses classified as zoonotic, meaning they can spread from animals to humans. Research shows that SARS-CoV (the virus causing Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) was transmitted from civet cats to humans, while MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) came from camels or bats.

In humans, these viruses can cause respiratory infections ranging from mild flu-like symptoms to more severe conditions like MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Symptoms of a coronavirus infection can include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia, kidney failure, and serious respiratory tract infections.

2. Monkeypox

Monkeypox was first discovered in 1958, when two cases of smallpox occurred in monkeys used for research. The primary host for the monkeypox virus is rodents, but the virus can also be found in monkeys, squirrels, and other animals. Though endemic in some African countries, monkeypox has now spread to various regions, including the United States and Europe.

3. Anthrax

Anthrax is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through contact with infected livestock. Humans can contract anthrax if they come into direct contact with an infected animal, consume contaminated meat, or inhale spores from anthrax bacteria.

4. Rabies

Rabies, also known as mad dog fever, is caused by the rabies virus (Rhabdovirus) and attacks the central nervous system. If untreated, it can be fatal. Although rabies is deadly, it can be prevented through vaccination and by avoiding contact with wild animals.

Rabies is typically found in wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks, and wolves. However, according to the CDC, in some countries, rabies remains a risk in stray and domestic dogs, often transmitted through dog bites.

5. Dengue Fever, Malaria, and Chikungunya

Smaller creatures, like mosquitoes, can also transmit diseases to humans. These include dengue fever, malaria, and chikungunya, all of which are marked by high fever, body aches, headaches, and vomiting. If not properly treated, these diseases can progress into more severe conditions and may even be fatal.

6. Salmonella Infection

Salmonella infection (also known as salmonellosis) is caused by the Salmonella bacteria and leads to symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. This bacteria lives in the digestive tract of animals and is spread to humans through food contaminated by animal feces. While salmonella infections often resolve on their own, more severe cases may require immediate medical treatment.

In tropical countries like Indonesia, zoonotic diseases transmitted by mosquito bites remain endemic in certain areas. Individuals living near livestock, frequently interacting with wild animals, or owning pets are at higher risk of contracting zoonotic diseases. However, there are several preventive measures that can help reduce the risk, including frequent handwashing, vaccination, maintaining food hygiene, preventing mosquito bites, and avoiding animal bites or scratches.

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