Mission:

Zoonotic diseases (also called zoonoses) are diseases of animals that can be transmitted to humans. Many zoonotic diseases require a vector (such as a mosquito or tick) in order to be transmitted from animals to humans. These diseases are called vector-borne diseases. The Zoonotic Disease Team strives to reduce the incidence and associated human and animal impact of zoonotic diseases such as rabies, vector-borne diseases such as West Nile virus, and infestations such as head lice in Georgia by conducting surveillance and providing information to the public about these and other associated diseases. The Zoonotic Disease Team coordinates with other agencies to monitor zoonotic diseases in livestock, pets, and wildlife in order to better track and prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases in human populations. The Zoonotic Disease Team works with mosquito control agencies to reduce the impact of some vector-borne diseases through proper mosquito control measures. The Zoonotic Disease Team also partners with various environmental health and nursing groups to provide guidance and education on infestations such as head lice and bed bugs.

The mission of the Zoonotic Disease Team is to systematically collect, analyze, interpret, and disseminate data on zoonotic, vector-borne diseases, and infestations among Georgians. Information gathered is used to design control and prevention measures, to evaluate the effectiveness of public health interventions, and to improve services to populations at greatest risk.

Zoonotic diseases: Diseases that can be passed from animals (Livestock, pets, and wild animals) to humans.
Examples include Rabies, Brucellosis, and Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome.

Vector-borne Diseases: Diseases that are spread mainly by mosquitoes and ticks.
Examples include West Nile Virus, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Malaria.

Infestations: Human infestations caused by pests such as lice and mites.
Examples include Head Lice and Scabies.