Emerging Infectious Diseases

Global hotspots and correlates of emerging zoonotic diseases

Emerging zoonotic diseases, those transmitted from animals to humans, are influenced by complex ecological, environmental, and socio-economic factors. Global hotspots for these diseases often overlap with regions of high biodiversity, rapid urbanization, and close human-wildlife interaction. Key areas include tropical rainforests in South America, Central and West Africa, Southeast Asia, and regions with extensive livestock farming.

Correlates of Emerging Zoonotic Diseases

Biodiversity Hotspots: High biodiversity increases the reservoir of potential pathogens. Human encroachment into these areas through logging, agriculture, and settlement disturbs ecosystems, allowing pathogens to spill over to humans.

Land-Use Changes: Activities like deforestation and agricultural expansion disrupt natural habitats, forcing wildlife closer to human populations and increasing contact between species


Wildlife Trade and Consumption: Markets selling live animals create direct human exposure to wildlife and their pathogens, as seen in outbreaks like SARS and COVID-19.