Zoonotic disease of occupational significance in agriculture: a review

Abstract

This manuscript presents an overview of occupational zoonotic diseases of agricultural workers (agricultural zoonoses). The primary intended use of this manuscript is to provide an educational frame work for public health officials in countries where there is a concern to establish or modify agricultural zoonoses control programs. The material is presented in two parts: 1) general concepts, (including definitions, classifications and ecological concepts), and 2) a description of selected agricultural zoonotic diseases. The general concepts and definitions, presented here in narrative form, are common to all agricultural zoonoses, regardless of geographical location. The specific facts for the individual diseases are presented in a tabular format. The tables present the essential features of 40 of the most important agricultural zoonoses, from a worldwide perspective. An extensive reference list is included so the reader may supplement this manuscript with additional readings.