Proper education of stakeholders in animal husbandry on good farm management practices such as biosecurity, vector control, vaccination, and waste management is key to reducing the burden of animal diseases and preventing zoonotic infections in humans. This was the central message of the 283rd Inaugural Lecture delivered by Professor Nusirat Elelu of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin.
In her lecture titled “The Public Health Veterinarian Through Ticks, Snails, and Community Service,” Professor Elelu emphasized that improving practices at the farm level can significantly enhance food security, reduce poverty, and limit the risk of infectious diseases jumping from animals to humans.
“Mass vaccination of animal reservoirs, where effective vaccines exist, remains the most cost-effective method of preventing zoonotic infections in humans. It is far cheaper and more sustainable than treating human cases after infection has occurred,” she stated.
Professor Elelu, a leading expert in Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, warned that poor waste management, such as improper disposal of birth products and bodily fluids, contributes to environmental contamination and increases the chances of zoonotic transmission via aerosolization or direct contact.
She stressed that vectors like ticks and snails are often overlooked carriers of serious diseases. These vectors contribute to underdetected febrile illnesses that are often mistaken for malaria or typhoid due to overlapping symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.
The professor advocated for the One Health approach, a collaborative model that integrates the expertise of veterinarians, medical doctors, environmental scientists, and other stakeholders in addressing public health threats.
“More than 70% of emerging infectious diseases in humans originate from animals. Diseases like brucellosis, zoonotic tuberculosis, and tick-borne relapsing fever are prevalent in Nigeria but underreported due to weak diagnostic and surveillance systems,” she added.
Among the recommendations highlighted were: Joint nomadic vaccination campaigns for livestock and children; Improved surveillance systems across animal and human health sectors; Community education on food safety and zoonotic risks; and Regulation of health misinformation on social media platforms.
Professor Elelu also emphasized the need to strengthen public health policies to promote routine veterinary checks, farm inspections, and disease reporting systems, particularly in underserved rural communities.
“The role of the public health veterinarian is critical in bridging the gap between human and animal health. Only through joint efforts and grassroots interventions can we achieve healthier communities and safer environments,” she added
The lecture was well-attended by members of the academic community, public health experts, veterinary practitioners, and government officials, all of whom commended the insights provided.
