10 Animal-Borne Illnesses Causes Symptoms and Foods to Avoid

Being aware of animal-borne illnesses is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. They are easily avoidable so long as you are aware of the illnesses, their causes, and their symptoms. Additionally, avoiding specific foods, like those that are animal-based, can help you reduce the risk of infection. By understanding these illnesses and taking necessary precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from potential health risks.

1. Salmonellosis

Source: WJZ/Youtube

Caused by the Salmonella bacteria, this illness is usually contracted from contaminated poultry, eggs, and reptiles. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting. These symptoms will usually start 6 hours or 6 days after the infection and last 4 to 7 days. 

2. Campylobacteriosis

Campylobacter bacteria are commonly found in undercooked poultry, unpasteurized milk, and contaminated water. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and nausea. It makes about 1.5 million people in the United States sick every year. 

In October of 2023, public health officials in Salt Lake County, Utah investigated an outbreak of campylobacteriosis. They discovered that it came from raw, unpasteurized milk. This is a repeated outbreak that has affected 295 people since 2009.

3. E. coli Infection

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Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria can be acquired through undercooked meat, contaminated produce, and unpasteurized milk. Symptoms include severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting.

4. Listeriosis

Listeria monocytogenes bacteria can be present in deli meats, soft cheeses, and unpasteurized dairy products. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and severe complications, especially for pregnant women, infants, and older adults. This typically comes in singular cases, but sometimes outbreaks happen as well. 

In 2021, health officials in New York State and New York City traced an outbreak of listeriosis to packages of mortadella and ham at market delis in Brooklyn. An estimated 1,600 people each year get listeriosis and around 260 die.

5. Toxoplasmosis

Caused by the Toxoplasma parasite, this illness is commonly transmitted through undercooked meat or shellfish and contact with infected cat feces. Symptoms may include flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches. 

In a longitudinal study on toxoplasmosis, a researcher found that out of 34 outbreaks between 1960-1980, 16 were from meat consumption. In March 2023, four California sea otters died from toxoplasmosis -posing a risk to human health.

6. Lyme Disease

Source: WXYZ-TV Detroit/Youtube

Transmitted by ticks, particularly the black-legged tick, Lyme disease can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, and a characteristic bullseye rash. Avoiding tick-infested areas and taking preventive measures is crucial.

7. Rabies

Source: Animal Planet/Youtube

Rabies is typically transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals, such as bats, raccoons, or dogs. Symptoms include fever, headache, anxiety, and eventually progress to neurological complications. Immediate medical attention is essential.

An outbreak in Brazil, transmitted by bats, quickly affected the Maxakali indigenous people. Four children, all under the age of twelve, were infected and died 8 days after exposure.

8. Avian Influenza

Source: PBS Newshour/Youtube

Also known as bird flu, avian influenza primarily affects birds but can be transmitted to humans through close contact with infected poultry or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms may range from mild respiratory illness to severe pneumonia.

9. Brucellosis

Brucella bacteria can be transmitted through consuming raw or unpasteurized dairy products or direct contact with infected animals. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, joint pain, and potentially long-lasting complications if left untreated.

This disease primarily affects dogs, but it was transmitted to two humans in the United Kingdom in 2023.

10. Q Fever

Source: news.com.au/Youtube

Caused by the Coxiella burnetii bacteria, Q fever is often acquired through inhalation of contaminated dust from livestock or consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. Symptoms may include high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and respiratory issues.

Awareness of animal-borne illnesses is crucial for protecting your health. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and ways of transmission can help you take necessary precautions. Avoiding specific foods, such as undercooked meat, unpasteurized dairy products, and contaminated produce, is essential in preventing these illnesses. By following recommended safety measures and maintaining good hygiene practices, you can reduce the risk of infection and prioritize your well-being.

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• How Rearing, Hunting, Trading, Killing, Dissecting and Eating Animals Leads to Zoonotic Diseases like COVID-19

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