How can wildlife rehabilitators prevent zoonotic diseases?

Following strict hygiene practices when handling animals is crucial for preventing zoonotic diseases, which are infections that can be transmitted between wildlife and humans. Implementing rigorous hygiene protocols—such as wearing gloves, masks, and other protective gear, as well as thoroughly disinfecting work areas—minimizes the risk of exposure to pathogens that might be present in the blood, saliva, urine, or feces of wildlife.

These practices create a safer environment for both the rehabilitators and the animals in their care, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of disease transmission. Furthermore, good hygiene supports the overall health of the wildlife being rehabilitated, as maintaining clean conditions aids in the recovery process.

In contrast, working without protective gear compromises safety, isolating all wildlife potentially overlooks the need to manage only sick individuals or those in immediate danger, and treating only domestic animals disregards a significant portion of wildlife that may require rehabilitation and the associated risks of zoonotic diseases.