Zoonoses - animal diseases transmissible to humans

Zoonoses (plural of ‘zoonosis’) are animal diseases that are transmissible to humans.

About 75% of emerging human infectious diseases are thought to have come from animals, including wildlife.

Governments in Australia aim to address this threat by strengthening links between human and animal health systems.

Although there are many animal-borne disease agents that can affect humans, zoonoses fortunately are not common in Australia. However, for affected individuals some zoonoses have serious consequences.

This Primefact covers the following topics:

• Defining zoonosis
• Notifiable zoonoses – how common are they?
• Prevention is best
• Zoonoses in Australia
• References and further information
• Table of zoonoses in Australia