The world is witnessing an unprecedented increase in infectious animal diseases, threatening a new pandemic that threatens not only livestock and wildlife, but also human health and food security.
This harsh warning comes from the first-ever global animal health report released by the World Animal Health Organization (WOAH).
This report presents a calm, global snapshot of the changing landscape of animal health, providing important insights into the emergence, spread and impact of infectious diseases across species and boundaries.
Published prior to WOAH’s 92nd General Session and its Animal Health Forum, the report aims to drive high-level discussions on innovative prevention strategies, including science-based vaccination and the One Health approach.
Dr. Emmanuelle Soubeyran, Director of WOAH, explained:
“By launching a new annual assessment of global animal health, WOAH is shedding light on interrelated health issues and solutions that can improve animal health and, in turn, global health.”
Infectious diseases spreading to borders and species
One of the most impressive revelations in the report was the dramatic increase in the outbreak of mammalian avian influenza, more than doubled in just a year.
In 2024, 1,022 outbreaks were recorded in 55 countries. This has increased from 459 in 2023. Although immediate risks to humans remain low, an increase in the number of mammalian infections raises alarms about the evolution of mammals to mammals, and ultimately the possibility of viruses due to human infection.
Equally troublesome is the movements of other important diseases. The anti-minants of the Peste des Petits (PPR – previously limited to developing countries) led to an unexpected return to Europe.
Meanwhile, African pig fever (ASF) arrived in Sri Lanka, travelling over 1,800 kilometres from the previously known outbreak zone. These developments highlight the dynamic and unpredictable nature of infectious animal diseases in today’s interconnected world.
Zoonotic Diseases and One Health Order
Almost half of all diseases reported to WOAH between 2005 and 2023 were classified as zoonotic diseases that can jump from animals to humans.
This underscores the need for integrated health strategies that collectively consider human, animal and environmental health.
WOAH calls for intensified international cooperation under one health framework, particularly as global climate change, increased trade and habitat disruptions continue to promote the emergence and spread of these diseases.
The role of vaccination and biosecurity
It is still possible to prevent spreading of animal diseases. The report highlights the ability to control or eradicate many diseases by combining vaccination, strict hygiene, and enhanced biosecurity measurements. However, a key challenge remains global disparities in vaccine availability and access.
Woah has made progress in the region, operating two vaccine banks for rabies and PPR. As of May 2025, nearly 30 million rabies vaccines have been distributed to Africa and Asian countries.
Nevertheless, global advances in rabies control are waning. Currently, only 62% of countries reporting active rabies management measures have fallen from 85%.
Antibiotic use and increased threat to resistance
The report also highlights the important link between disease prevention and antibiotic resistance.
Reducing the need for antibiotics in animals not only helps to reduce resistance, but also ensures the long-term efficacy of treatments in both animals and humans.
Antibiotic use in animals fell 5% worldwide between 2020 and 2022, reducing the significant decline in Europe (23%) and Africa (20%).
However, 20% of countries still use antibiotics to promote livestock growth. This is a practice that was strongly discouraged by WOAH as it contributes to drug-resistant strains.
If the animal is not addressed, antibiotic resistance in animals can have catastrophic consequences. The forecast suggests that it could result in enough livestock loss to put food security of 2 billion people at risk, causing an estimated $100 trillion in economic damage by 2050.
Strengthen global defense
WOAH highlights the urgent need for investment in national veterinary services, improving disease surveillance systems, and developing advanced diagnostic tools.
These techniques are important to accurately distinguish between vaccinated and infected animals. It is the key to effective tracking, transparency and trade integrity.
Just as the world is fighting the escalation of threats from animal diseases, this groundbreaking report serves as both a wake-up call and a roadmap.
By prioritizing vaccination, surveillance, and global cooperation, the international community can build stronger defenses to protect food systems, biodiversity and public health over the coming years.
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