Zoonotic threat

Zoonotic diseases are those caused by the passage of diseases from animals to human beings. Today, this issue has become the biggest public health problem worldwide. Pakistan is also no exception, and factors such as climate change and human intrusion into wildlife habitat increase this danger and call for urgent attention. The convergence of climate change and human activities has intensified these threats. Increases in temperature and rainfall have been directly related to vector-borne diseases. In addition, deforestation and urbanisation have caused human-wildlife contact opportunities to increase because of the interaction between humans and wildlife.

The best course of action for dealing with the increasing menace of zoonotic diseases in Pakistan is through complete measures. Improvement in the surveillance systems is very important in helping to ensure that the early detection and response prevent outbreaks from growing. Public awareness campaigns will play a key role in teaching the communities how to prevent contact with stray animals and seek medical attention immediately if they suspect they have been exposed. We must also enforce regulations controlling illegal wildlife trade and limiting deforestation.

Maria Hameed

Karachi