Animal Reservoirs

Animal reservoirs refer to certain animals that harbor pathogens—like viruses or bacteria—without showing signs of illness themselves. These animals can serve as a source of infection for humans and other species. For example, bats are known reservoirs for many viruses, including some that have caused outbreaks in humans. Understanding animal reservoirs is crucial for public health, as it helps identify potential sources of diseases and informs strategies to prevent outbreaks and control transmission between animals and humans.