Zoonotic diseases pass from animals to humans. About three-fourths of emerging infectious diseases derive from animals. Humans can contract zoonotic diseases through direct contact with fluids, such as blood or urine, indirect contact, such as touching contaminated surfaces, or vector-borne diseases, such as a tick or mosquito bite. Each year, zoonotic diseases cause an estimated 2.7 million human deaths and economic losses that reach billions of dollars.
While the impact of zoonotic diseases is widespread and can affect anyone, individuals who work in agriculture and natural resources (ANR) sectors may be more vulnerable because of their close contact with animals.
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