Initiative to monitor zoonotic diseases among frontline forest staff
The initiative to monitor zoonotic diseases among frontline forest staff has recently gained traction in Maharashtra, India. Spearheaded by the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) in collaboration with the National Institute of Virology (NIV), the Maharashtra forest department, and the Ela Foundation, this program aims to establish a real-time surveillance model for detecting zoonotic infections among workers in bird sanctuaries and local communities near wetlands.
Launch Date: The initiative commenced in January 2025 and is part of a broader effort under the National One Health Mission.
Objectives: The primary goal is to screen frontline forest staff for zoonotic diseases, particularly given their close interaction with wildlife and potential exposure to infections. This includes monitoring flu-like symptoms and conducting seroprevalence studies over three years.
Methodology: Participants will provide informed consent to participate in the study, which involves collecting various biological samples (respiratory, blood, stool, urine) as needed. The program emphasizes early detection and reporting of symptoms to prevent outbreaks.
Zoonotic diseases—those transmitted from animals to humans—are a growing public health concern globally. Recent incidents, such as the deaths of wild animals from avian influenza, underscore the urgency of monitoring these diseases. The initiative aims to create awareness among forest staff about the risks associated with zoonoses and improve their response to potential infections.
Future Directions
The program is expected to expand to other regions of Maharashtra in a phased manner, enhancing the capacity for early detection and response to zoonotic threats across different ecosystems within the state.
