Today, July 6, we celebrate World Zoonoses Day, dedicated to reminding us how closely animal and human health are connected. This observance recalls Louis Pasteur’s first rabies vaccination in 1885 and highlights the One Health principle, which is crucial to preventing diseases transmitted between animals and people.
The role of livestock farms
In the poultry and livestock sectors, zoonoses represent a concrete risk for public health as well as for production continuity and trust along the entire value chain. Well-known examples include avian influenza, salmonellosis and psittacosis, which can spread through infected animals, excretions, contaminated environments or improperly handled food products.
For this reason, prevention at farm level is the first health barrier: restricting access, applying strict biosecurity measures, sanitizing hands and equipment, using dedicated devices, and promptly monitoring any symptoms in the animals are essential steps to reduce the risk of infection.
Health control and the value chain
Health control does not protect only animals, it also safeguards workers, consumers and businesses. Zoonotic diseases can have major economic consequences, affecting productivity, management costs, the availability of animal proteins and the reputation of the whole supply chain.
In this context, veterinary surveillance, early diagnosis and rapid reporting of suspected cases become strategic tools. Training of staff and proper management of materials, vehicles and visitors also help break the chain of transmission and strengthen the resilience of the entire production system.
A shared commitment
Preventing zoonoses requires continuous cooperation between farmers, veterinarians, health authorities and supply chain operators. Investing in biosecurity, animal welfare and epidemiological monitoring means protecting public health and ensuring continuity in a sector that is essential for food security.
On this day, the message is clear: the health of livestock farms is a decisive component of public health, and prevention remains the most effective measure to protect people, animals and value chains.
