Zoonotic infections.

More than 200 diseases are transmitted from animals to humans. Zoonotic infections can be transmitted via animal bites, arthropod vectors, especially ticks and mosquitoes, and direct contact with animals. Infections also can be contracted indirectly by ingestion of contaminated food or water or contact with contaminated hides, wool, or fur. Persons at risk of zoonotic infections include people who enjoy outdoor leisure activities such as hiking, camping, hunting, spelunking, and fishing. Occupational groups at risk include animal control officers, hunters, abattoir workers, farmers, fisherpersons, persons working with hides or wool, and laboratory workers working with zoonotic pathogens. The risk of infection can be reduced by appropriate use of personal protective equipment, immunizations, and measures to avoid insect bites.