Zoonoses are infectious diseases that are transmitted between animals and humans through direct contact, environmental exposure, vectors, or food systems. These diseases account for a substantial proportion of emerging and re-emerging infections globally. Zoonoses reflect the close biological and ecological relationships among humans, domestic animals, wildlife, and shared environments.

Transmission pathways for zoonotic diseases are diverse and context-specific. Direct contact with infected animals, exposure to contaminated environments, vector-mediated transmission, and consumption of animal products all contribute to risk. Changes in land use, agricultural intensification, wildlife trade, and human mobility influence these pathways. Such dynamics are frequently examined at Infectious Diseases Conference discussions focused on cross-species transmission and prevention.

From a systems perspective, animal-to-human infectious diseases emerge when ecological balance is disrupted. Habitat loss, climate variability, and expanding human-animal interfaces increase opportunities for pathogens to cross species barriers. Once established in humans, some zoonotic pathogens adapt to sustained human-to-human transmission, amplifying public health impact.

Surveillance is central to zoonoses prevention. Monitoring animal health provides early warning of pathogens with spillover potential. Veterinary surveillance, wildlife monitoring, and environmental sampling complement human disease reporting. Integrating these data streams improves risk assessment and enables early intervention before widespread transmission occurs.

Prevention strategies prioritize reducing exposure at interfaces. Biosecurity in livestock production, safe handling of animals, and regulation of wildlife trade limit transmission opportunities. Vector control and environmental management reduce indirect exposure. Education of high-risk occupational groups supports consistent preventive behavior.

Health system preparedness influences outcomes following zoonotic emergence. Diagnostic capacity, laboratory networks, and clinical awareness enable timely identification. Clear referral pathways and coordinated response reduce delay and limit spread. Collaboration across animal health, public health, and environmental sectors strengthens response effectiveness.

Zoonoses underscore the interconnected nature of health across species and ecosystems. Preventing zoonotic disease requires sustained collaboration, shared surveillance, and coordinated policy. By addressing risks at the animal-human-environment interface, health systems reduce the likelihood of emergence and protect population health.