A recently released report from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) reveals that many animal diseases are spreading to new areas and nearly half of them pose a risk to humans. The report highlights that increasing cases of diseases like African Swine Fever (ASF), avian influenza (bird flu), foot and mouth disease (FMD), and peste des petits ruminants (PPR) are creating serious challenges for food systems, public health, and wildlife.
In 2024 and early 2025, significant outbreaks were reported in various regions, driven by climate changes, global trade, and changing patterns of infection. Emmanuelle Soubeyran, the director general of WOAH, stated, “The spread and impact of these diseases is changing, presenting new difficulties for agriculture, food security, human health, and ecosystems.”
Between 2005 and 2023, almost half of the diseases reported by WOAH could infect humans. One notable instance was in October 2024 when ASF jumped over 1,800 kilometers to Sri Lanka, which underscored that no area is immune. In total, 16 countries reported over 6,800 ASF outbreaks in 2024, leading to the loss of nearly 222,000 pigs.
Avian influenza has also been a major concern, affecting over 630 million birds in the past two decades. In 2024, outbreaks were recorded in both poultry and non-poultry species, with the number of mammal infections rising notably. Although the risk of human infection remains low, experts warn that infections in mammals increase the chances of the virus adapting to humans.
Other diseases such as the bluetongue virus, FMD, lumpy skin disease, New World screwworm, and PPR also showed significant outbreaks in various countries. Some of these diseases have emerged in new areas, prompting increased alertness among health authorities.
The report emphasized that many of these diseases can be controlled through vaccinations and improved hygiene. However, access to vaccines is not equal worldwide, presenting challenges for combatting these diseases. Soubeyran called for global cooperation to ensure that safe vaccines are available to help mitigate risks associated with these animal diseases.
