Pia Muchaal

In: UA Magazine 3 - Health aspects of urban agriculture

Zoonoses are infections naturally transmitted between vertebrate animals and humans, either directly or indirectly through the consumption of contaminated foods. Traditional zoonotic diseases for which effective control measures and cures are available in affluent countries, are still a cause of morbidity and mortality in humans and animals in developing countries (Wastling et al. 1999, Cosivi et al. 1995). Increasing urbanisation, the growth of livestock production in close proximity to humans, the rising rate of HIV, inadequate hygienic practices, and cultural customs and beliefs exacerbate the transmission, persistence and impact of zoonotic diseases in these regions.