Zoonoses are diseases transmitted form animals and humans (and reverse zoonotic or zooanthroponotic) are diseases from humans TO animals.
Some zoonotic diseases are emerging because of land clearing / deforestation, increasing contact with animals such as hunting or handling of livestock and pets and poor hygiene practices. A On e Health approach, acknowledging the interconnectedness of humans, animals and the environment is essential to understand how diseases are transmitted and the best ways we can reduce the risk.
This may mean simple things such as ensuring pets are wormed regularly with appropriate prophylaxis or not feeding wildlife which frequent tourist spots, whether in Australia or overseas. Always perform hand hygiene after handing or feeding pets or livestock, if you are in a high risk group make sure you are vaccinated for Q Fever or rabies, and use appropriate personal protective equipment and use it correctly.
