In a recent episode of Flatten the Curve, experts discussed the urgent need to prevent zoonotic diseases from spreading to humans and protect cities from major future outbreaks. It is estimated that 75% of infectious diseases in humans originate from animals, making it imperative to address the root causes of these outbreaks.
Environmental destruction and urbanization are identified as key factors increasing the risk of zoonotic outbreaks. Veterinarians in countries like Madagascar are leading disease surveillance programs, guided by the “One Health” philosophy that recognizes the link between ecological health and pandemic readiness.
The global spread of COVID-19 highlighted how quickly zoonotic diseases can escalate and turn cities into disease hotspots on a global scale. In response, cities like Brussels are implementing innovative urban design solutions to reduce the risk of infection and improve overall public health.
The episode also highlighted the importance of containing disease outbreaks in remote areas to prevent them from spreading to urban centers. By focusing on early detection and response, experts believe that it is possible to prevent future pandemics and protect our cities from the devastating impact of infectious diseases.
Overall, the discussion emphasizes the need for a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to address the complex challenges posed by zoonotic diseases and ensure the health and safety of our cities and communities.
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