Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Animals as early detectors of bioevents: veterinary tools and a framework for animal-human integrated zoonotic disease surveillance.
- Journal:
- Public health reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974)
- Year:
- 2008
- Authors:
- Gubernot, Diane M et al.
- Affiliation:
- The George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services · United States
Plain-English summary
This article discusses how animals can help detect diseases that can spread from animals to humans, known as zoonotic diseases. Because animals can be more sensitive to certain harmful agents, they can serve as early warning systems for public health threats like bioterrorism and new infectious diseases. The authors suggest that current monitoring efforts in the U.S. are not enough and need to be better organized and connected among different health agencies. By working together and analyzing both animal and human health, we can respond more effectively to disease outbreaks and protect both pets and people. The overall message is that improving cooperation in disease surveillance can help reduce illness and death in both animals and humans.
Abstract
The threat of bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases has prompted various public health agencies to recommend enhanced surveillance activities to supplement existing surveillance plans. The majority of emerging infectious diseases and bioterrorist agents are zoonotic. Animals are more sensitive to certain biological agents, and their use as clinical sentinels, as a means of early detection, is warranted. This article provides design methods for a local integrated zoonotic surveillance plan and materials developed for veterinarians to assist in the early detection of bioevents. Zoonotic surveillance in the U.S. is currently too limited and compartmentalized for broader public health objectives. To rapidly detect and respond to bioevents, collaboration and cooperation among various agencies at the federal, state, and local levels must be enhanced and maintained. Co-analysis of animal and human diseases may facilitate the response to infectious disease events and limit morbidity and mortality in both animal and human populations.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19006972/