Kiran Kulkarni*
Zoonotic diseases, also known as zoonoses, are infectious diseases that are transmitted between animals and humans. These diseases are caused by a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi, which can be transmitted directly or indirectly from animals to humans. Zoonoses represent a significant threat to global public health as they account for more than 60% of all human infectious diseases, with over 70% of emerging infectious diseases having an animal origin (1). Examples of zoonotic diseases include rabies, avian influenza, Ebola, and Toxoplasmosis. Zoonoses not only pose direct health risks but also contribute to economic burdens on health systems and agricultural sectors due to their impact on livestock and wildlife populations (2). Their transmission is influenced by environmental factors, human behavior, and the close interactions between humans and animals, particularly in urbanization, global trade, and climate change (3). Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is one of the most common zoonotic infections worldwide, with significant public health implications. This disease is typically associated with domestic cats, which are the definitive hosts of the parasite, but humans and other animals can also serve as intermediate hosts. The significance of Toxoplasmosis lies in its ability to cause a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic infections to severe outcomes such as encephalitis, ocular toxoplasmosis, and congenital toxoplasmosis, which can lead to neurological and developmental issues in newborns (4). It is a particularly serious concern for immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients, who are at increased risk for developing more severe forms of the disease (5). Furthermore, the potential for congenital transmission during pregnancy highlights the importance of early detection and management of the disease in pregnant women, as it can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or lifelong disabilities in the child (6). Toxoplasmosis has a global distribution, with prevalence rates varying depending on geographic location, socio-economic conditions, and cultural practices. Studies suggest that approximately one-third of the global population has been exposed to Toxoplasma gondii at some point in their lives (7). The disease is more common in areas where foodborne transmission is prevalent, such as regions where undercooked meat is a part of the diet, or where there is poor sanitation and close contact with animals, particularly cats (8). For example, the prevalence of T. gondii antibodies is higher in countries in Latin America, Eastern Europe, and parts of Africa, while lower in parts of Asia and Scandinavia (9). In the United States, it is estimated that around 11% of the population is infected, but most cases are asymptomatic or mild (10). The distribution of the disease can be influenced by multiple factors, including the presence of domestic cats, agricultural practices, and food safety standards (11). Additionally, the disease has a substantial impact on public health due to its chronic nature and the associated healthcare costs related to treating severe cases, especially in immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women (12)
10.5281/zenodo.17668205