Surveillance and response to disease emergence

Area of Science:

• One Health
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Emerging infectious diseases impact human, animal, and wildlife health, with 75% of human cases being zoonotic.
• Wildlife is a key source of inter-species disease transmission, and wildlife trade can cause significant economic losses.
• The human health sector often lags in threat assessment compared to animal health, and data gaps exist, particularly in developing countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the need for comprehensive risk assessments for emerging zoonotic diseases.
• To emphasize the importance of integrated surveillance and response systems.
• To advocate for a whole-of-government approach to manage animal disease emergencies with human health implications.

Main Methods:

• Review of emerging infectious disease trends and impacts.
• Analysis of surveillance data gaps and preparedness planning.
• Assessment of inter-sectoral collaboration needs for risk reduction.

Main Results:

• Zoonotic diseases pose a substantial threat, amplified by wildlife interactions and trade.
• Inadequate surveillance and preparedness planning hinder effective control.
• A coordinated, multi-sectoral approach is essential for managing emerging zoonotic threats.

Conclusions:

• Strengthening national and international surveillance and response systems for emerging zoonotic diseases is imperative.
• Applied research across human, livestock, and wildlife sectors is needed for evidence-based prevention and control.
• A robust public health infrastructure, alongside similar systems in animal and wildlife sectors, is key to minimizing disease impact.