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Emerging diseases--what veterinarians need to know
1Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens 30602-7388, USA.
Summary
Emerging diseases are increasing due to altered etiologic agent movement. Factors like human population growth and environmental changes will drive further increases in disease spread.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- One Health
Background:
- Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) pose a significant global health threat.
- Factors driving EID emergence are complex and interconnected.
- Altered movement patterns of etiologic agents are central to EID spread.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the factors contributing to the rise in emerging diseases.
- To highlight the role of altered etiologic agent trafficking in disease emergence.
- To inform veterinarians about their role in addressing this growing challenge.
Main Methods:
- This study is a conceptual review of factors influencing disease emergence.
- Analysis of the relationship between human activity and pathogen dissemination.
- Synthesis of information on ecological, agricultural, and demographic changes.
Main Results:
- Altered agent trafficking, driven by human population growth and mobility, is a primary factor in EID increase.
- Environmental disruption and changes in agricultural practices facilitate microbe exchange.
- These trends indicate a continued and likely accelerated rise in disease emergence.
Conclusions:
- The increase in emerging diseases is intrinsically linked to changes in how disease-causing agents move.
- Veterinarians must be prepared to play a crucial role in surveillance, prevention, and control of EIDs.
- Proactive engagement by the veterinary profession is essential to mitigate future public and animal health risks.
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