Rodents Human Zoonotic Pathogens Transmission: Historical Background and Future Prospects

Abstract

Rodents (Order Rodentia) are one of the most speciose and diversified groups of terrestrial mammals with several beneficial roles in nature. They constitute 2277 known species which make up 42% of total mammal fauna. They are reported to inhabit in all continents except Antarctica and several small islands. They perform several beneficial roles in the environment. Despite of several beneficial roles, rodents are also a source of zoonotic pathogens. Rodents are important reservoirs of evolving zoonotic diseases because they come into close contact with livestock in the agricultural background and humans in urban zones. Almost 10% of the rodent population is either a carrier or reservoir of zoonotic pathogens of public health significance. Rapid development of agricultural and industrial change throughout the globe, has led to a significant increase in zoonotic borne disease of rodents. Rodents transfer pathogenic agents to humans through direct contact, and animals or via contamination of human food, water with rodents’ stool, or through urine. Arthropod vectors on the skin of several rodents are also able to carry zoonotic pathogens. Several factors regulate human rodent pathogen transmission like rodent population handling, human socio-economic lifestyle, and even war. Human activities such as animal trade, migration, urbanization, and large-scale traveling are facilitating factors in rodent-pathogens transfer.