Rethinking Human-Nonhuman Primate Contact and Pathogenic Disease Spillover

Area of Science:

• Zoonotic disease research
• One Health
• Anthropology

Background:

• Zoonotic transmissions pose significant global health risks, with human-animal contact often cited as a primary driver.
• Existing literature frequently links increased human-animal contact to higher risks of disease spillover.
• The term "contact" itself lacks rigorous analysis and consistent definition in studies of zooanthroponosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically analyze the term "contact" in the context of human-nonhuman primate (NHP) engagements and pathogen transmission.
• To explore how spatial overlap between human and NHP habitats influences disease transmission dynamics.
• To integrate anthropological perspectives on historical, social, and environmental processes shaping zoonotic spillovers.

Main Methods:

• Multi-disciplinary literature review of studies on human-NHP interactions and pathogen transmission, focusing on the use of the term "contact".
• Examination of research on spatial overlap between human and NHP habitats as a factor in disease transmission.
• Integration of anthropological approaches to understand broader contextual factors influencing zoonotic spillovers.

Main Results:

• The term "contact" is inconsistently and imprecisely applied across studies, often overlooking pathogen diversity and transmission routes.
• Spatial overlap of habitats is considered but does not fully explain the mechanisms bringing together hosts, pathogens, and humans.
• Anthropological and historical analyses offer a more comprehensive understanding of the processes underlying zoonotic spillover events.

Conclusions:

• Researchers must precisely define "human-animal contact" when investigating zoonotic diseases.
• Broader ecological, social, and historical contexts are crucial for understanding pathogen transmission dynamics between humans and animals.
• An integrated approach, combining contact analysis, spatial considerations, and socio-historical factors, is essential for predicting and mitigating zoonotic risks.