Not only are we humans afflicted by contagious diseases contracted from our fellow man, but we are also subject to becoming ill from diseases which animals, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, domesticated, non-domesticated or wild, themselves carry. These same diseases may also be transmitted from us to members of the animal kingdom. These interspecies diseases are known as ZOONOTIC DISEASES, diseases shared by man and animal alike.

Zoonotic diseases may be transmitted in a variety of ways. Direct transmission is by direct contact between man and animal. Indirect transmission requires either an intermediate vector or host, such as flies, mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and other biting insects or by contact with formites, such as contaminated bedding, clothing, grooming instruments, etc.

The below listed diseases are only the tip of the Zoonotic Disease Iceberg. For some, Rabies, Leptospirosis, Polio, TB, there are preventive vaccinations and inoculations. For some, good hygiene, such as washing well after contact with animals and their waste products, will be effective prevention. Most can be treated with modern medications. Rabies is the exception, for once contracted, there is no effective treatment, and death will ensue. Those persons with suppressed immune systems are especially at risk. Consult your family Veterinarian, Physician, or Public Health Officer should you have any cause for alarm.

Dr. John N. Case, Jr. is the owner of a companion animal practice, The Clinic for Animals, located at 5201 North State Road, Tamarac, FL. He can be reached at (954) 739-4500.