|
There are many diseases
aquired by humans from contact with animals or animal products.
Such diseases are termed zoonoses. These infective agents can
be viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites.
It is important to note that many of the human diseases aquired
from animals do not necessarily have a noticeable effect on
the animal involved. Similarly for several diseases, an animal
may have developed a high degree of immunity to the infective
organism, and may be able to pass on the infection/ infestation
to other animals and to people, without themselves suffering
any ill effects. These animals are termed carriers.
Because of the peculiar nature of these diseases and their mode
of transmission, diagnosis may be difficult. Several diseases
aquired from animals require notification by a medical practitioner
to the appropriate health authority.
zoonoses may be spread by
- Inhalation (breathing in) of infective dust or droplets
of infective moisture.
- Ingestion (swallowing) of contaminated food or water.
- Direct contact
Some diseases such as viruses, bacteria and fungi have a direct
mode of transmission, while other organisms, such as parasites,
go through a series of changes in their life cycle.
Groups at increased risk
- People working with livestock, birds and any other animals
- Pregnant women
- People with impaired immunity ( such as diabetes, kidney
or liver disease, HIV and persons using immuno-suppressive
drugs )
- Children under age of five should be closely supervised
to avoid contact with animal excretions
- Infants under age of one are at risk from direct and indirect
contact with animals.
For more specific information on diseases contracted from particular
animals,
For
more information Click Here
|
