Define zoonotic diseases.

Zoonotic diseases are defined as diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. This encompasses a broad range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, that have the potential to infect humans through direct contact with infected animals, consumption of animal products, or environmental exposure to animal waste. Understanding zoonotic diseases is crucial for public health as they can originate from wildlife, domesticated pets, or livestock, and they have the ability to cause serious health issues in humans. Recognizing this definition helps highlight the importance of monitoring animal health and implementing measures to prevent disease transmission from animals to humans.