Have you ever thought that humans could be more than just “receptors” of viruses from animals? Well, recent research published on Nature Ecology & Evolution tells us a slightly different story, and I have to say, rather fascinating!
Traditionally, here we are seen as victims of those nasty viruses that jump from animals to humans, called zoonoses. But now we discover that we too, surprisingly, aregive” to our animal friends a lot of these viral intruders! Yes, you heard that right: we transmit more viruses to them than we receive.
Scientists analyzed further 12 million of viral sequences, discovering that almost double the so-called 'species jumps' (from one species to another) see man as the protagonist. This phenomenonknown as anthroponosisshows that we humans often we are the source of infections for wild and domestic fauna with which we come into contact.
With viruses we are all in the same cauldron
And it doesn't end here! The study reveals that often these exchanges of virus they happen without humans even being involved, underlining how intricate the network of contacts between the various species is. Basically, we are all connected in a continuous cycle of viral transmission.
This revelation invites us to consider ourselves no longer as undisputed dominators of nature, but as part of a much larger system, where our actions have repercussions on the entire ecosystem. It is a reminder of our responsibility to other living things and the environment we share.
When we transmit viruses to animals, we not only put them and biodiversity at risk, but also ourselves. Animals infected by human viruses can become reservoirs of diseases that could potentially affect us again, affecting our safety food and public health.
The approach “One Health”, which views human, animal, and environmental health as interconnected, can help us better understand how viruses evolve and prepare for future pandemics. It is essential that we work together to protect and conserve endangered species, For the sake of all.
Reflecting on this data, it seems clear that we are not just passive victims but active actors in the world of viruses. This awareness should push us to reconsider our role in the ecosystem and to act more responsibility towards him others inhabitants of ours planet.
And you, do you feel ready to do your part in this delicate balance? How do you think we can reduce our viral impact on other living things?
#viruses #viral #exchanges #species #barrier
