Chapter 6 - (Re-)emerging viral zoonotic diseases at the human–animal–environment interface

Abstract

Zoonotic pathogens, those that are shared between vertebrate animals and humans, are responsible for up to 75% of emerging infectious disease events globally Jones et al. (2008), Taylor et al. (2001) and Rohr et al. (2019). Disease emergence is increasingly recognized as a priority risk to global health security. Viral pathogens, in particular, pose a high risk of cross-species transmission (spillover) and disease emergence due to mutation during replication and high recombination frequencies. Wild animals have been implicated in several high-impact viral epidemics, including severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-1), the related current COVID-19 pandemic (SARS-CoV-2), and Ebola virus disease. Activities at the human–animal–environment interface may drive zoonotic risk by altering the distribution of animal populations and increasing human exposure to emerging pathogens. Zoonotic spillover and rapid dissemination of pathogens are becoming increasingly inevitable with a highly connected, globalized society. The contribution of multiple disciplines and sectors, operationalizing at the interface of human health, animal health, and the environment using a One Health approach through surveillance, research, and policymaking is essential. Animal health, particularly wildlife, and environmental sectors must be integrated into country-level planning, evaluation, and policymaking for pandemic preparedness with due consideration of implementation at regional and global levels. While significant strides have been made to align international frameworks and make country-level guidance resources available, work remains to ensure a unified approach at all levels of government for disease mitigation at the human–animal–environment interface.