There have been a number of alarming public health threats linked to intensive livestock production and agricultural intensification.
These include the emergence of Nipah virus in pig farms in Malaysia, Swine Acute Diarrheal Syndrome in China caused by a novel coronavirus, and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome caused by a coronavirus linked to camel production. In the US and Europe, outbreaks of H5N1 avian flu have decimated poultry flocks, and the virus has now emerged in cattle.
Nature.Health.Global. is preparing a series of whitepapers, editorials and scientific publications on the emerging disease outcomes of livestock production and agricultural intensification. Our goal is to raise awareness of the issue, demonstrate the hidden costs of cheap food production, and collaborate with organizations that aim to reduce unsustainable consumption.
Our prior work suggests that these viral diseases emerge due to the very specific conditions livestock are kept in. This includes intensive production that provides perfect conditions for viruses to spread rapidly. It also includes the mixing of species, or raising of livestock in areas rich in wildlife biodiversity and viruses they harbor.
