Climate Change and the Rising Threat of Zoonotic Diseases

https://www.ihadnoclue.com/article/1082585617473470465

The article details how climate change and human activity accelerate zoonotic disease transmission—pathogens jumping from animals to humans. Research predicts that by 2070, over 3,000 mammal species will relocate to new regions, creating 300,000+ first-time species encounters that could enable viral transmission. This trend is already evident, with the WHO documenting a 63% increase in zoonotic outbreaks in Africa between 2012 and 2022. Driving factors include deforestation (each 10% increase correlates with a 7.5% rise in outbreaks), wildlife trade (moving 1.5 billion animals annually), and industrialized livestock production. In response, scientists are deploying AI-powered prediction systems, genomic surveillance, and wastewater monitoring. While COVID-19 cost the global economy approximately $16 trillion, experts note that prevention systems would require just $10 billion annually, highlighting the need for a "One Health" approach recognizing the interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health.