Fish zoonoses of the tropics: A Review

Abstract

The possibilities of pathogens transmitting zoonotic diseases to fish or aquatic environments are dependent on seasons, patients’ contact with fish or fish related environment, nutritional habits and the immune system level of the exposed individual. Consumption of aquatic food is on the increase, and thus explains the answers to the increase in zoonotic contraction cases found in man. Zoonotic infections can be classified into infections caused by: a) direct interaction with infected animals b) consumption of raw or undercooked aquatic products. Pathogens may be natives of the said aquatic environment or may occur as a result of environmental pollution such as the use of fertilizer, human waste or any of the anthropogenic substances. Zoonotic infections can be passed to man through fish via any of the following hosts: Helminths, Bacteria, Protozoa and Arthropods.Nevertheless, once the chemistry and control of zoonoses is understood, putting up measure to adequately address them when necessary will not be challenging. More so, educating the public on the need for prevention, proper cooking of aquatic products, and also a constant reminder of potential dangers are necessary to reinforce proper sea food handling practices.

Keywords: Zoonoses, Fish, Effect and Control