[Zoonoses related to leisure activities]

Zoonoses related to leisure activities. Many zoonoses can be contracted by humans during recreational activities. In the context of a walk, some of them, such as Lyme disease, are transmissible by biological vectors, particularly ticks, or by aerosol (Q fever, hantavirose), whereas others can be contracted in case of aquatic activities (leptospirosis), hunting (tularaemia), and visits to pet farms or fairs (especially the hemolytic uremic syndrome). The risk is increased by the taste of urban populations for outdoor activities and by their ignorance of the risks associated with wild and domestic animals. In addition, current climate changes are accompanied by an increase in the incidence of certain zoonoses already present and with a risk of emergence of zoonoses still unknown in France. Vigilance is therefore essential, as well as a good knowledge of the appropriate methods for prevention and control, including the active participation of target populations.