How bad for humans is wildlife trade? A new study has answers
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A new study found that traded mammals are about 1.5 times as likely to be sources of human diseases than non-traded animals. The wildlife trade, including live animal markets and the illegal trade of endangered species, can facilitate the transmission of pathogens from animals to humans, leading to outbreaks like COVID-19 and Ebola.
The wildlife trade can lead to the transmission of pathogens from animals to humans. A recent study found that traded mammals are more likely to be sources of human diseases. The study analyzed data on over 2,000 traded species and found that 41% shared at least one pathogen with humans. Live animal markets and the illegal wildlife trade are particularly risky. The study's findings suggest that the wildlife trade is a significant risk factor for the emergence of infectious diseases. Reducing the risk of zoonotic diseases will require a global effort to regulate the wildlife trade and protect public health.
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