Infectious Diseases, Microbiology & Beneficial Microbes

Veterinary Infectious Diseases

Veterinary infectious diseases affect animals such as pets, livestock, and wildlife, and can sometimes impact humans. These diseases, caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi, significantly affect animal health, welfare, and productivity. Examples include:

• Canine Distemper: A viral disease in dogs causing respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological symptoms. It can be fatal, especially in puppies and unvaccinated dogs.
• Feline Panleukopenia: Also known as feline distemper, this viral infection in cats leads to fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased white blood cells. It is highly contagious and often fatal in kittens.
• Rabies: A viral disease affecting mammals, including dogs and cats. Transmitted through bites, it impacts the central nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms and death. It is zoonotic and can be transmitted to humans.
• Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD): A contagious viral disease in cloven-hoofed animals, causing fever and blisters. It results in economic losses due to trade restrictions.

Control measures include vaccination, biosecurity, vector control, and quarantine, with veterinarians playing a key role in disease management and public health protection.