What are the Challenges in Monitoring Zoonotic Diseases?
Monitoring zoonotic diseases presents several challenges:
1. Underreporting: Many zoonotic diseases are underreported due to limited diagnostic capabilities, lack of awareness, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure, particularly in developing countries.
2. Wildlife Reservoirs: Many zoonotic pathogens have wildlife reservoirs, making it difficult to monitor and control their spread. For instance, bats are known reservoirs for several high-risk pathogens including the viruses responsible for Ebola and Nipah.
3. Antimicrobial Resistance: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance can complicate the treatment and control of zoonotic diseases. Monitoring programs must also track resistance patterns to adapt treatment protocols accordingly.
