DISEASES FROM ANIMALS (Zoonoses)

Diseases from Animals (Zoonoses)

Diseases that people can get from animals are called zoonotic diseases. These illnesses can spread from animals to humans, either by direct contact with an animal or by coming into contact with an animal’s environment. Some zoonotic diseases are spread by ticks or mosquitoes.

The Boston Public Health Commission keeps track of many zoonotic diseases in Boston, such as West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and Salmonella. These are reported to BPHC by health care providers and other sources so that we can better control and prevent these illnesses.

You can do your part to stay healthy while around animals by being aware of germs that can make you sick and by following some simple strategies to keep from getting sick.

Zoonotic Diseases in Boston:

Choose a zoonotic disease below to learn more or visit our Dog Bite Prevention and Bat Safety pages.

DOGS

Campylobacter

Giardia

Leptospirosis

MRSA

Rabies

Ringworm

Salmonella

RATS & MICE

Giardia