International Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health

International Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health

Zoonotic Fish-Borne Infections in the Context of Sea Travel: Prevention and Control Measures

Document Type : Review Article

Authors
1 Department of Veterinary Medicine, Shabestar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shabestar, Iran.
2 Department of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Branch. Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
3 Applied Virology Research Center, Biomedicine Technologies Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
Zoonotic diseases associated with sea travel pose a serious threat to public health due to increased international traffic and the movement of aquatic animals. These diseases, which are transmitted from animals to humans, are particularly complex because of the diversity of transmission routes and the absence of symptoms in many aquatic organisms. Risk factors include ecological changes, human demographic and behavioral characteristics, and the inefficiency of public health systems. Climate change and environmental degradation may lead to the emergence of new diseases in marine plants and animals. To prevent and control infectious diseases, multiple monitoring systems and control strategies have been designed by the WHO and WOAH. Public education and raising awareness among the medical community are key factors in the prevention and control of these diseases. Additionally, hand hygiene and the use of low-risk methods for greetings on cruise ships are recommended. Identifying transmission routes, assessing risks, and developing preventive strategies with a One Health approach are essential measures to combat these threats. However, research gaps and the lack of epidemiological data hinder the development of effective policies. The future of this field requires scientific investment and international collaboration to enhance preparedness against zoonotic diseases related to sea travel.
Keywords

Volume 13, Issue 3
2025
Pages 142-148

  • Receive Date 23 April 2025
  • Revise Date 02 May 2025
  • Accept Date 03 May 2025