Every July 6th, World Zoonoses Day is celebrated, a date that is no coincidence, as it commemorates the historic milestone of 1885 when Louis Pasteur successfully administered the first rabies vaccine. Today, this concept is more relevant than ever, as it refers to all those diseases that can jump from animals to humans, whether through direct contact, via food, or through intermediaries known as vectors. In a world as interconnected as ours, these diseases have ceased to be anecdotal and have become a major concern. constant challenge that affects public health and the stability of our healthcare systems.
The reality is that our health is not an isolated phenomenon, but rather closely linked to what happens in the natural environment and the health status of the animals around us. The data handled by experts is quite clear and indicates that approximately three out of every four new infectious diseases originate in the animal kingdom. Therefore, with the arrival of higher temperatures and changes in ecosystems, it is vital to remember that Prevention is the most powerful tool which we have to prevent a small outbreak from escalating into a major problem.
The impact of climate on the expansion of vectors
One of the most pressing issues in Spain and the rest of Europe today is how rising temperatures are altering the behavior of certain insects and arachnids. The increase in temperatures and increasingly shorter winters are allowing species that were once typical of tropical climates to thrive in our latitudes. The tiger mosquito, for example, is now a common sight across much of Spain, and its presence is not only a nuisance due to its bites, but also represents a real risk of virus transmission like dengue or Zika.
Ticks, especially those of the genus Hyalomma, are not far behind, having considerably expanded their areas of activity. These small parasites are responsible for transmitting serious diseases, such as Lyme disease in Spainwhose cases are no longer exceptional in our country. Environmental health professionals insist that the management of these vectors cannot be limited to acting when there is already an infestation, but requires a continuous surveillance and scientific monitoring of populations to anticipate risks.
One Health for a safer future
To address this complex situation, the international community and veterinary organizations in Spain are firmly committed to the 'One Health' approach. This philosophy recognizes that we cannot cure people without also caring for animals and the environment in an integrated way. It is of little use to have state-of-the-art hospitals if we do not pay attention to livestock health or wildlife, since early detection in animals This is what allows action to be taken before the first human case appears.
In this respect, veterinarians play a crucial role that sometimes goes unnoticed by the general public. From pet clinics to inspections of livestock farms and slaughterhouses, they weave a safety net that guarantees food safety and the control of diseases. It is estimated that 60% of pathogens that affect humans are zoonotic, which makes the frontline veterinary surveillance defense against potential pandemic threats.
Prevention at home and in the workplace
At home, the fight against zoonotic diseases begins with something as simple and fundamental as keeping up with our pets' vaccination schedules. Although Spain has been rabies-free in terrestrial mammals for decades, its proximity to areas where the disease remains active means we must not let our guard down, and it is essential to be aware of the relevant information. how to know if my dog ​​has rabiesFurthermore, pathologies such as Leishmaniasis in the Canary IslandsTransmitted by sandflies, these diseases have a very established presence in southern Europe, which makes the use of antiparasitic treatments and repellent collars be a public health measure that goes far beyond just protecting the dog.
On the other hand, the veterinary industry and public administrations are strengthening their rapid diagnostic and seasonal screening systems. Having accurate tests available in the clinic allows for immediate clinical decisions and more effective control of disease spread. Ultimately, this is a necessary investment, since managing a health crisis once it has erupted is infinitely more costly and traumatic than... to commit to a preventative culture solid and coordinated among all sectors involved.
For all this effort to succeed, it is essential that society understands that everyday actions, such as maintaining good hygiene after touching animals or protecting our pets, are key components. History has taught us that borders do not exist for viruses and bacteria, and that the only way to coexist safely is by respecting the natural balance and maintaining constant vigilance. Protecting animal life and the well-being of ecosystems is, ultimately, the best way to to ensure our own survival and quality of life in the future.
