Wildlife as sentinels for emerging zoonotic diseases: A review of surveillance systems in the USA

Abstract

Wildlife plays a crucial role as sentinels for emerging zoonotic diseases, serving as early indicators of potential threats to human and animal health. This review examines the surveillance systems in the USA that utilize wildlife as indicators for the presence of emerging zoonotic pathogens. The review focuses on the methodologies, challenges, and implications of these surveillance systems. In the USA, wildlife surveillance for zoonotic diseases is primarily conducted through passive surveillance, where wildlife carcasses are collected and tested for pathogens. Additionally, active surveillance programs target specific wildlife species known to host zoonotic pathogens or species that may be in close contact with humans or domestic animals. These surveillance efforts are complemented by the use of sentinel species, such as birds or bats, which are monitored for signs of disease that could indicate the presence of zoonotic pathogens. Challenges in wildlife surveillance include the vast geographic range of many wildlife species, making it difficult to sample populations comprehensively. Additionally, the diversity of wildlife species and habitats in the USA presents logistical challenges for surveillance efforts. Furthermore, there are challenges related to data sharing and coordination among agencies responsible for wildlife and public health. The implications of wildlife surveillance for public health policy and practice are significant. Early detection of zoonotic pathogens in wildlife can lead to timely public health interventions, such as vaccination campaigns or changes in land use practices to reduce human-wildlife contact. Moreover, wildlife surveillance can inform the development of predictive models for disease outbreaks, enabling more effective preparedness and response measures. In conclusion, wildlife surveillance plays a critical role in the early detection and monitoring of emerging zoonotic diseases in the USA. Continued investment in surveillance systems and research is essential to enhance our understanding of zoonotic disease dynamics and improve our ability to protect human and animal health.