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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Veterinary education on zoonotic diseases and emerging infections

By Chomel, B B & Marano, NยทPublished in Revue scientifique et technique (International Office of Epizootics)ยท2009ยทDepartment of Population Health and Reproduction, United StatesยทView original on PubMed โ†’

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Original publication title: Essential veterinary education in emerging infections, modes of introduction of exotic animals, zoonotic diseases, bioterrorism, implications for human and animal health and disease manifestation.

Plain-English summary

Veterinary education plays a key role in keeping both animals and people healthy by managing diseases that can spread from animals to humans, known as zoonoses. As new infections emerge from both wild and domestic animals, it's important for veterinary students to be trained to recognize and respond to these threats, including those that could arise from bioterrorism. This training should include understanding how to report diseases, knowledge of ecosystems, and specialized classes on wildlife diseases. By focusing on these areas, future veterinarians will be better prepared to handle potential health risks. Overall, the goal is to create a strong workforce capable of addressing these challenges effectively.

Abstract

A fundamental role of the veterinary profession is the protection of human health through wholesome food and control of diseases of animal origin, especially zoonoses. Therefore, training of veterinary students worldwide needs to face the new challenges posed by emerging infections, both from wildlife and domestic animals, as well as risks from bio/agroterrorism. New courses emphasising recognition, response, recovery and prevention must be developed to respond to natural or intentionally induced emerging diseases and zoonoses. Training programmes in applied epidemiology, zoonoses and foreign animal diseases are crucial for the development of a strong workforce to deal with microbial threats. Students should learn the reporting pathways for reportable diseases in their countries or states. Knowledge of the principles of ecology and ecosystems should be acquired during pre-veterinary studies. Elective classes on wildlife diseases, emphasising wildlife zoonotic diseases, should be offered during the veterinary curriculum, as well as a course on risk communication, since veterinarians are frequently in the position of having to convey complex information under adverse circumstances.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20128464/