AIIMS Bibinagar collaborates with Nehru Zoo Park for research on zoonotic diseases

The vital initiative aims to enhance the understanding of disease transmission between animals and humans especially in light of recent global health concerns surrounding zoonosis

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad-based Nehru Zoological Park (NZP) and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bibinagar launched a major collaborative study on zoonotic diseases, the infections that spread between animals and humans.

The vital initiative aims to enhance the understanding of disease transmission between animals and humans especially in light of recent global health concerns surrounding zoonosis.

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As a part of the initiative, the AIIMS-Bibinagar team, comprising of specialists in infectious diseases, veterinary medicine, and medical technicians led by Dr Lakshmi Jyothi and team under the guidance of Dr Rahul Narang Dean (Academics), held a meeting on Tuesday with Zoo officials regarding the study to be taken up.

The AIIMS team visited parts of zoo to closely monitor the health and behaviors of various animal species. The objective was to examine potential zoonotic pathogens and assess the health risks posed by the interaction between zoo animals and animal keepers. The AIIMS team intends to collect biological samples, study animal habitats, and assess sanitation and care procedures currently in place at the zoo.

It was also decided to to establish a long-term coordinative partnership. “Our goal is to work together with the zoo authorities to create a robust disease monitoring system, which will not only protect the animals but also ensure the safety of the zoo staff,” Dr. Laxmi Jyothi said.

Director (FAC) Zoo Parks and Curator, NZP, Dr. Sunil S. Hiremath said “The visit marks the beginning of a critical partnership. Together, we aim to ensure that our staff and animals remain healthy and that we are well-prepared to mitigate any potential zoonotic threats.”

The AIIMS-Bibinagar team’s visit highlights the growing importance of addressing zoonotic diseases in the wake of recent outbreaks worldwide. By working closely with NZP-Hyderabad, the team hopes to implement measures that will set a new standard for animal health care and public safety in zoos across India, press release said.