Illegal Animal and (Bush) Meat Trade Associated Risk of Spread of Viral Infections

Bushmeat plays an important role in local economies, human sustenance, nutrition, international trade, culture, and the reduction of biodiversity. A number of ecological and behavioral factors contribute to increased risk of exposure to zoonoses through the bushmeat trade. While habitat conservation and wildlife sustainability may not be foremost on the mind of disease prevention specialists, opportunities to engage members of diverse communities exist that could lead to mutually beneficial collaboration across such disciplines. This chapter considers human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as a case study to emphasize the worldwide impact that zoonoses can have on public health and to suggest steps that can be taken to prevent and addresses future zoonotic pandemics. It provides a detailed overview of knowledge surrounding the bushmeat trade, illegal animal trade, and emerging zoonoses and to suggest future directions in research and policy.