How to stay safe from animal-borne diseases?

Animal-borne diseases are illnesses that humans contract from animals and that can spread from one person to another. It is estimated that there are around 200 types of animal-borne diseases, and about 60 per cent of microbes causing disease in humans originate from animals. When handling pets, dogs require special caution. Since dogs mostly live inside homes, the germs they carry can easily reach humans. One primary disease transmitted this way is Hydatid Disease, also known as Cystic Echinococcosis.

How the disease occurs
Hydatid disease is caused by a worm that emerges from eggs laid by Echinococcus. These eggs are present in the excreta of infected dogs. People who handle dogs without proper hygiene can come into contact with these eggs, which may enter the stomach. Once inside, the larvae can travel through the bloodstream and form tumours with inflammation in any of the internal organs such as the liver, spleen, lungs, kidneys or even the brain.

Dogs usually contract this disease by consuming the meat of infected cattle, goats, or pigs. While most infected dogs show no symptoms, their excreta can still contain the eggs of the parasite.

Diagnosis and treatment
Hydatid disease can be diagnosed through scans and laboratory tests. It can often be treated with medication or surgery, but in some cases, the infection may become critical. This makes prevention especially important.

Symptoms
Even if these germs enter the body, they may not cause any noticeable symptoms for years. The signs of infection depend on the size and location of the tumour. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, allergic reactions, coughing and impaired function of the affected organ.

If left untreated, the tumour may rupture, causing the infection to spread throughout the body and triggering severe allergic reactions.

Prevention measures
1)Clean dog cages and premises regularly and spray disinfectant frequently.
2)Never feed dogs raw or undercooked meat.
3)Wash hands thoroughly with soap and disinfectant after handling dogs.
4)Administer anti-parasitic (anti-maggot) medication to dogs at regular intervals.
5)Isolate infected dogs from other pets.
6)Avoid kissing dogs or allowing them to lick your body.
7)Do not allow children to play with dog toys or feeding vessels.
8) Wash hands and legs with soap after visiting public areas or open spaces.