Emerging and re-emerging diseases–A threat to human and livestock health

Livestock has constantly been threatened by various emerging and re-emerging diseases. In past years, there is a sharp increase in the number of emerging and re-emerging diseases of livestock and the effecting global health and economy. It is essential to point out that some of these diseases are zoonotic such as Nipah, influenza, corona, etc. The re-emergence of a disease can be attributed to the fact that the pathogens are continuously evolving, giving rise to new variants, which adds more complexity to the disease and, hence, to animal health. Apart from mutations, climate change, deforestation and other human activities involving the translocation of humans and livestock, direct contact with animals and birds is also one reason for the emerging and re-emerging of diseases. In the past, diseases were a threat to livestock and human, and it is the same today also. However, there were limited sources and techniques to deal with the emerging diseases. However, today, because of advancements in diagnostic methods and medical sciences, it is relatively easy to track the origin, identification and treatment of diseases. This article will discuss some of the emerging and remerging livestock diseases, global response to address these diseases, including India, and their preventive measures.