**National Zoonotic Disease Day** is observed every year on **July 6th** in India to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases—those that can be transmitted from animals to humans. The day marks the commemoration of **Dr. Louis Pasteur’s** success in administering the first rabies vaccine on July 6, 1885.
Zoonotic diseases include rabies, bird flu, swine flu, anthrax, and COVID-19. These diseases pose a significant public health risk, especially in countries with close human-animal interactions.
The aim of this day is to:
Educate the public on how to prevent zoonotic diseases.
Promote the “One Health” approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health.
Encourage safe animal handling and responsible pet ownership.
It is an important reminder of the need for coordinated action between veterinarians, doctors, and environmentalists to prevent future outbreaks and ensure public safety.