![]() ![]() that can be a reservoir of these diseases. In addition, this type of behavior generates an increase in contact between humans, livestock and domestic animals with wild animals. These practices encourage the proliferation of species with a stronger immune system, such as rats or bats and other reservoir animals for pathogens that cause zoonotic diseases. Consequently, the development of pathogens, potential hosts and vectors is favored, since they are more comfortable in their environment given the scarcity of other more hostile species. Activities such as deforestation for the establishment of crops and livestock or for the growth of cities, the trafficking of species and the fragmentation of habitats through the construction of roads alter the balance of ecosystems and reduce biodiversity. But why is this increase in zoonotic diseases taking place? Evidence points to the increasing intervention of human beings in the Earth’s ecosystems. We are talking about pathogens that cause diseases such as AIDS, Covid-19, swine flu, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever or monkeypox, among others. In this last century, an average of two viruses a year have passed from their original host to humans. These are microorganisms that initially infected animals and, due to small mutations, are capable of infecting humans. DISCOVER THEM Approximately 60% of human pathogens studied are zoonotic that is, they are transmitted to humans from animals. MORE INFO Enjoy our special editions at a single price for being a subscriber. Enjoy 3 FREE National Geographic magazines and be part of the movement for a more sustainable world. ![]()
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