What are Common Zoonotic Diseases?

Zoonotic diseases are infections that can be transmitted from animals to humans. These diseases can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi. The transmission can occur in various ways, such as through direct contact with infected animals, through vectors like ticks and mosquitoes, or through contaminated food and water.

In Florida, due to its unique climate and ecosystem, several zoonotic diseases are particularly prevalent. Some common examples include:

1. Rabies: A viral disease found in mammals, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks in Florida. It is transmitted through bites or scratches from an infected animal.
2. West Nile Virus: Transmitted to humans through mosquito bites, this virus often circulates between birds and mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can then transmit the virus to humans and animals.
3. Lyme Disease: Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks.
4. Leptospirosis: This bacterial disease is transmitted through contact with water contaminated by the urine of infected animals, including wildlife and domestic animals.
5. Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE): A virus transmitted by infected mosquitoes, EEE is more commonly found in horses but can infect humans. It is a serious condition that can cause inflammation of the brain.
6. Hantavirus: This virus is spread by rodents, particularly through contact with their droppings, urine, or saliva. While not as common in Florida as in some other regions, it is still a risk.
7. Salmonellosis: Often associated with contaminated food, this bacterial infection can also be transmitted by handling reptiles like turtles, lizards, and snakes, which are common in Florida.
8. Toxoplasmosis: A parasitic disease that can be transmitted to humans through contact with cat feces. It’s a particular concern in areas with a large population of feral cats.
9. Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika: Viral diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, these have had outbreaks in Florida, primarily due to the state’s conducive environment for mosquito breeding.