Role of Migratory Birds in the Spread of Zoonoses

Migratory birds are special creatures in nature as they travel throughout the globe for their survival and breeding by exploiting various seasonal opportunities. While travelling across the national and international borders these birds may also carry various disease-causing pathogens along with them. It includes different species of bacteria, viruses, fungi and endoparasites. These pathogens can be transmitted directly or indirectly to humans and domestic animals when there is a close association between them. Hence, they play an important role in the spread of pathogenic microorganisms in the ecosystem. So, it is very important to understand the dynamics of migratory birds and their ecology to mitigate and prevent the transmission of zoonotic disease. It can be achieved through collective and collaborative efforts from all the sectors by one health approach.