Context
The first immunization against a zoonotic illness is commemorated annually on July 6 as World Zoonosis Day.
- Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) organised a nationwide free vaccination camp against zoonotic diseases on account of World Zoonosis Day 2023.
What is a Zoonotic Disease?
Zoonotic diseases are illnesses that animals or insects can transmit to humans. While some infections may not harm the animals, they can cause sickness in humans. These diseases can range from minor, short-term ailments to severe, life-altering conditions. It has been reported that approximately 60% of human infections originate from animals or insects.
Various sources, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites that are capable of crossing from animals or insects to humans, can cause zoonotic diseases. Throughout history, numerous zoonotic diseases have affected humans. The COVID-19 pandemic, which is believed to have originated from a virus transmitted by bats, is a prominent recent example of zoonotic diseases, according to the current available and accepted information.
History of World Zoonoses Day
The history of World Zoonoses Day can be traced back to the French scientist Louis Pasteur’s successful development of a vaccine against rabies in 1885. Pasteur’s breakthrough laid the foundation for the study of zoonotic diseases, which are infectious diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans.
- The term “zoonoses” was first used in the early 20th century to describe diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Since then, zoonotic diseases have been a significant threat to public health, causing outbreaks of serious illnesses such as influenza, Ebola, and COVID-19.
- In recognition of the importance of addressing zoonotic diseases, the first International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases was held in Atlanta, USA, in 1998. At this conference, the concept of “One Health” was introduced, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
- World Zoonoses Day was first observed on July 6, 2007, the 100th anniversary of Louis Pasteur’s death, to honor his contribution to the field of zoonotic diseases. The day aims to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases and their impact on both human and animal health, and to encourage collaboration among public health professionals, veterinarians, and other stakeholders to prevent and control these diseases.
Significance of World Zoonoses Day
World Zoonoses Day motivates people and organisations to take action to stop and manage zoonotic diseases through events like educational campaigns, workshops, and conferences. This involves actions like heightened public health and veterinary professional cooperation, enhanced surveillance, immunisation campaigns, and better hygiene and sanitation practices.
World Zoonoses Day Celebration
- Educational Campaigns and Conferences
- Workshops
- Public Lectures
- Online Events and Seminars
- Health Screenings and Animal Welfare Initiatives
FAQs about World Zoonosis Day 2023
World Zoonosis Day is observed annually on July 6 to commemorate the first immunization against a zoonotic illness and raise awareness about zoonotic diseases.
Zoonotic diseases are illnesses that can be transmitted from animals or insects to humans. They can range from minor, short-term ailments to severe, life-altering conditions, and approximately 60% of human infections originate from animals or insects.
World Zoonosis Day aims to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases and their impact on human and animal health. It encourages collaboration among public health professionals, veterinarians, and other stakeholders to prevent and control these diseases.
The history of World Zoonoses Day dates back to the successful development of a vaccine against rabies by Louis Pasteur in 1885. The term “zoonoses” was first used in the early 20th century to describe diseases transmitted from animals to humans.
World Zoonosis Day is celebrated through various events such as educational campaigns, workshops, conferences, public lectures, online events, health screenings, and animal welfare initiatives.
Read also:- ‘ONE HEALTH’ APPROACH
