Exchanging Pathogens the Other Way Round- Reverse Zoonoses & Wildlife

Abstract

Reverse zoonoses, the transmission of pathogens from humans to animals, represents a largely overlooked dimension of community health. This phenomenon is particularly significant in the context of wildlife, where limited surveillance and research make animals vulnerable to novel infections. But zooanthroponoses has also been documented in domestic and companion animals. The zoo and feral animals presiding in the protected areas are equally at risk. Additionally, the contamination of common resources like water and soil with anthropogenic residues can facilitate the emergence of new infections. Pathogens may mutate to more virulent form and invade new reservoir or vector species. This review aims to examine documented instances of reverse zoonoses by analysing case studies retrieved through targeted internet searches using keywords like “reverse zoonoses” and “zooanthroponoses”. The findings highlighted several cases involving viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens transmitted from humans to animals. The prevention of such diseases is important and requires awareness and research in these areas. To ensure the compliance of ‘One health’, it is important to focus on the cyclic potential of transmission of pathogens and thus, both human and animal subjects to control or prevent any disease.