Targeting Zoonotic Spillover Drivers for Global Pandemic Prevention: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Public Health

Background:

• Zoonoses constitute the majority of viral spillover events from mammals.
• Bats, rodents, and primates are primary reservoirs for zoonotic viruses.
• Human activities have drastically increased the rate of viral transmission between species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize the drivers of viral zoonotic spillover.
• To identify key intervention points for pandemic prevention.
• To analyze factors influencing pathogen transformation from animal to human hosts.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was conducted.
• Analysis focused on evolutionary, ecological, pathogen-related, and anthropogenic factors.
• Examined host species, pathogen traits, human-animal interactions, and environmental impacts.

Main Results:

• Pathogen transformation is influenced by host traits, contact frequency, and viral characteristics.
• Anthropogenic drivers like livestock expansion, bushmeat trade, wet markets, and exotic pet industries significantly increase spillover risk.
• Interventions are most effective at the wildlife-livestock-human interface.

Conclusions:

• Effective pandemic prevention necessitates a holistic, multidisciplinary approach.
• Collaboration between national and international organizations is crucial.
• Targeted interventions at interfaces are essential to mitigate future zoonotic risks.