Fewer scavengers could mean more zoonotic disease

A recent study highlights a concerning decline in scavenger populations, a trend that may have significant implications for human health. Scavengers, such as vultures and hyenas, play a crucial role in ecosystems by consuming animal carcasses, thereby preventing the spread of disease. As their numbers dwindle, the potential for zoonotic diseases—those that jump from animals to humans—could rise, posing new challenges for public health systems worldwide. The research points to several factors contributing to the decline, including habitat loss, poisoning, and climate change. These pressures not only threaten scavenger species but also disrupt the natural processes that help control disease outbreaks. Without these natural waste managers, carcasses linger longer in the environment, increasing the likelihood of pathogens spreading to humans and domestic animals. Experts warn that the loss of scavengers could lead to an uptick in diseases such as rabies, anthrax, and plague, which are known to thrive in unmanaged carcass sites. The study underscores the need for conservation efforts to protect these vital species and maintain ecological balance. By addressing the root causes of their decline, we can help safeguard both biodiversity and human health.

— Authored by Next24 Live