The purpose of this article is to focus on a topic within my educational field that I can research and inform the public about. I plan to become a veterinarian, which would require my daily contact with humans and animals. Zoonotic diseases are risk factors that I need to be aware of to protect myself, my patients and their owners. Fortunately, medical developments have made it possible to treat zoonotic diseases and even prevent their contraction. There are things that make people more susceptible to contracting zoonotic diseases. Knowingly or unknowingly, humans are in danger of being direct targets of zoonotic diseases. Zoonotic diseases are transmissible in various atmospheric ways through ingestion or direct contact. There are countless zoonotic diseases, some more commonly known than others, but all equally important. Preventing the contraction or spread of zoonotic diseases is easily manageable with drugs and vaccines, as well as following small tips that protect not only humans but also the animal population. Zoonosis is a Greek word. (“Zoonosis.” Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com, May 12, 2010. Web.) Zoonosis directly translates as animal disease. Zoon means animal. Noson means disease. (“Zoonoses.” Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com, May 12, 2010. Web.) Zoonotic diseases are diseases or infections transmitted from animals (vertebrates) to humans. Zoonotic diseases are often compared to epidemics, but epidemics are an infectious disease that spread in a community at a particular time. The lifespan of a disease depends on its ability to survive in a human population for long periods of time. Lifespan can be further extended if the pathogen c...... middle of paper ......and possibility of contracting a zoonotic disease. It is also important to make sure you clean fresh fruit and vegetables completely. http://www.infonet-biovision.org/default/ct/787/zoonoticDisseases. Also, when storing food, make sure it is completely covered to avoid cross-contamination, especially when storing food in the refrigerator. Protect your pets with proper medical care. The main cause of zoonotic diseases is the result of an infectious agent. In conclusion, zoonotic diseases are a growing concern in the United States and can be controlled or even prevented through simple precautionary methods and medications. Understanding that zoonotic diseases can enter a person's body through multiple ways, including lesions of the skin, eyes, mouth, and lungs, and even through animal bites, can help you know how to prevent contamination.