From the Research
The recent estimated global cost of zoonotic diseases is approximately $8-16 trillion, with direct economic losses and indirect costs factoring into this substantial economic burden. This estimate is based on the significant economic impact of COVID-19, a zoonotic disease that has caused unprecedented economic damage globally 1. The economic burden of zoonotic diseases falls disproportionately on low and middle-income countries, where these diseases are more prevalent due to closer human-animal contact, limited healthcare infrastructure, and fewer resources for disease surveillance and control.
Some of the key factors contributing to the economic burden of zoonotic diseases include:
- Direct healthcare expenses
- Livestock losses
- Trade restrictions
- Tourism declines
- Productivity losses
- Prevention and control measures
The importance of One Health approaches, which integrate human, animal, and environmental health, cannot be overstated in preventing and mitigating future zoonotic disease outbreaks 2. These approaches can help reduce the economic burden of zoonotic diseases by promoting early detection, prevention, and control of these diseases.
While the exact economic burden of zoonotic diseases is difficult to quantify, estimates suggest that the total economic burden exceeds $1 trillion per decade when accounting for indirect costs 3. The economic impact of zoonotic diseases is not limited to direct costs, but also includes indirect costs such as lost productivity, premature mortality, and crime.
In conclusion, the recent estimated global cost of zoonotic diseases is substantial, with significant economic losses and indirect costs factoring into this burden. The importance of One Health approaches in preventing and mitigating future zoonotic disease outbreaks cannot be overstated, and estimates suggest that the total economic burden of these diseases exceeds $1 trillion per decade.