Zoonotic Diseases in Latin America

Discussion

Zoonotic diseases bring light to the need of medical resources and hygienic systems within Latin America. This region geographically encompasses at risk communties that through travel, immigration and importing are often affected by the changing environment. Without necessary measures zoonotic diseases are able to impact these communities by having harmful economic and social implications. 

From the lack of data from some countries, the importance of having surveillance systems in place is obvious in order to understand the true profiles of these diseases within Latin America. The data outlines the flaws in collection and the lack of collaboration between countries. Compared to other countries such as the United States, that has consistent and strong data, shows the limitations of Latin America's data. Little is known for many geographical proportions of Latin America and within certain areas of specific countries. Without accurate data it is not possible to truly understand the future of diseases, meaning high risk levels for possible endemics. 

One aspect of this project brought to light the accessibility of resources especially to water and sanitary stations. Many conditions of rural communities would improve with access to basic systems for hygiene and sanitary purposes. The life cycle of zoonotic diseases often require a large mass of people, the right temperature and a lack of hygienic measures. Many new systems for sanitation often interrupt transmission at any of these points. 

With a range of bacterial, viral and parasitic zoonotic diseases, even beyond the scope of this project, the importance of understanding and conserving our environment is crucial. Within Latin America, deforestation and urbanization increase the probability of exposing communities to many pathogens. Through conservation programs, communities can work together in protecting their environment which ultimately protects themselves. 

It can not only be the international government's duty to put together these systems. Instead it requires the collaboration of people from organizations such as WHO all the way down to the community level to advocate for hygiene education. Personally understanding the importance of reporting, seeking treatment and continuing treatment should be a priority of community education. It is then the local government's responsibility to accurately report to national levels. Offering educational resources as well as educating the community are vital in making progressive elimination programs. 

For diseases that are newly emerging or pose little known threat to Latin America, it would be in WHOs and PAHO’s interest to take the opportunity to shape preliminary prevention and elimination programs in case of outbreaks. Trying different methods and techniques would offer a better understanding of the steps that can be taken to create meaningful and useful systems.

The importance of collaboration and integration of policies between countries in Latin America is emphasized within the project. Understanding the connected terrain as well as the commonality of these diseases would help create a broader system that protects Latin America from multiple vantage points. 

For the future, I wish to see improved data sets and more reported information. If countries work together within Latin America it can create a larger protective barrier from zoonotic diseases especially in the face of mass immigration. But most importantly, I hope to see improved systems such as water, sanitation and garbage that improve the quality of life for indigenous or remote locations. 

 

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