What is a zoonotic disease?

A zoonotic disease is defined as an illness that can be transmitted from animals to humans. This includes a wide variety of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi that originate in different animals and can infect humans through direct or indirect contact. Examples include rabies, West Nile virus, and various strains of influenza that can jump from animals to people.

The other options do not accurately define zoonotic diseases. For instance, zoonotic diseases are not limited to being transmitted solely by insects, nor are they exclusively affecting livestock or incapable of being transmitted to humans. Understanding zoonotic diseases is crucial in public health and veterinary medicine, as recognizing the animal sources of these pathogens can aid in prevention and control strategies.