Infectious Diseases

Zoonotic and Vector-Borne Diseases

Zoonotic diseases are infections that jump from animals to humans, while vector-borne diseases are transmitted via carriers like mosquitoes or ticks. These diseases include rabies, Ebola, bird flu, Lyme disease, malaria, dengue, Zika virus, and more. Factors such as global travel, urbanization, deforestation, and climate change have intensified the emergence and spread of these infections. Many zoonoses originate in wildlife and can evolve rapidly, posing significant pandemic threats. Vector-borne diseases often thrive in tropical and subtropical regions where vector control is inadequate. Effective prevention strategies involve animal surveillance, public education, vaccination (where applicable), and integrated vector management. Research into environmental drivers and host-pathogen interactions is essential to predict outbreaks. The “One Health” approach—linking human, animal, and environmental health—is increasingly recognized as crucial in managing these diseases and preventing future pandemics through coordinated global action.