Zoonotic reservoirs

Zoonotic reservoirs are animals or environments that naturally carry infectious agents—like viruses or bacteria—that can potentially infect humans. These reservoirs typically don't get sick themselves but harbor the pathogens, allowing them to persist and sometimes spread. For example, bats are reservoirs for certain viruses like rabies, while rodents can carry hantavirus. Understanding these reservoirs helps scientists identify sources of zoonotic diseases, which can jump from animals to humans, sometimes causing outbreaks. Managing interactions with these animals and their habitats is crucial for preventing disease transmission.