zoonotic
zoo-uh-NOT-ik
/ˌzuːəˈnɒtɪk/
Relating to or denoting a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
Often implies a 'spillover' event where a virus jumps the species barrier.
The story behind the word. Formed in the late 19th century from Greek roots, this word highlights the biological link between humans and the rest of the animal kingdom. It reflects the realization that many of our most dangerous pathogens are shared with other species.
Word family
- zoonosis (noun): A disease which can be transmitted to humans from animals.
Collocations
- zoonotic disease
- zoonotic spillover
- zoonotic origin
Example sentences
- "Ebola is a zoonotic virus, likely originating in fruit bats before spreading to human populations." Discussing the origins of Ebola.
- "Increasing contact between humans and wildlife raises the risk of zoonotic diseases emerging." Public health warning.
Memory hook
The word starts with 'ZOO'—where the animals are. Zoo = Animal.
When not to use
Do not use for diseases that only affect humans (like polio) or only affect animals (like feline leukemia).
Fun facts
- Approximately 60% of all infectious diseases in humans are zoonotic, and 75% of emerging infectious diseases come from animals.
Related words
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