Zoonotic infections in the veterinary profession: Can a vet claim compensation for a zoonotic infection?
Zoonotic infections—diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans—pose significant risks not only to veterinary students but also to qualified and practicing veterinarians. The nature of veterinary work, which involves close contact with a wide range of animals, inherently increases the risk of contracting these infections. Research carried out by the University of Liverpool, led by Dr. John Tulloch, aims to enhance safety within the veterinary profession by examining workplace injuries and zoonotic infections. At Slee Blackwell Solicitors, we recognize the serious implications of zoonotic infections and are committed to helping those affected recover compensation.
The Survey Findings: A Risky Profession
Dr. John Tulloch’s research provides critical insight into the risks faced by student vets. The study surveyed nearly 500 veterinary students in the UK and Republic of Ireland, revealing that 32% of respondents had contracted at least one zoonotic infection during their degree. The most common infection reported was cryptosporidiosis (Crypto), with 91% of these infections being acquired during farm placements.
However, the study’s findings have implications that extend beyond students to practicing vets as well. The risks associated with zoonotic infections do not diminish after graduation; veterinarians continue to face exposure throughout their careers, particularly in farm environments.
Key findings from the study include:
- Acceptance of Risk: Students reported accepting the risk of contracting a zoonotic infection as part of their training and future career.
- Reluctance to Take Time Off: Many students were reluctant to take time off to recover from infections, driven by a sense of duty and the demanding nature of their studies.
- Lack of Reporting: There was a notable lack of reporting among students who contracted infections, with many failing to notify their universities or seek appropriate medical attention.
- Inadequate PPE Usage: Students often lacked awareness of proper personal protective equipment usage and infection control practices, increasing their vulnerability.
- Cultural Issues in the Profession: The study identified a concerning culture within the veterinary profession that normalizes a sense of bravado and risk-taking, leading to maladaptive coping strategies when dealing with illness.
These findings underscore the need for a cultural shift within the veterinary profession to prioritize safety, proper reporting, and the use of PPE to mitigate the risk of zoonotic infections.
The Consequences of Zoonotic Infections
Contracting a zoonotic infection can have severe consequences for both veterinary students and practicing veterinarians, including:
- Physical Health Consequences: These can range from temporary discomfort to long-term health issues, depending on the type of infection and its severity.
- Disruption to Career or Studies: Infections can lead to significant time off work or studies, impacting academic progress, professional development, and income.
- Emotional and Psychological Stress: The ongoing risk of infection can cause anxiety and stress, particularly for those who have experienced a serious illness.
Common Types of Zoonotic Infections
Veterinary professionals are exposed to a variety of zoonotic infections due to their close work with animals. Here are some of the most common types:
- Bacterial Infections
Leptospirosis: Caused by Leptospira bacteria, this infection is spread through contact with contaminated water or soil, or direct contact with the urine of infected animals, including rodents, dogs, and livestock. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe illness, including kidney damage, liver failure, and respiratory distress.
Salmonellosis: Caused by Salmonella species, this bacterial infection is common in reptiles, poultry, and livestock. Humans can contract it through contact with contaminated animal faeces, or improperly cooked meat. Symptoms include diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
Brucellosis: This infection, caused by Brucella bacteria, is often transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. It primarily affects livestock such as cattle, goats, and pigs. In humans, it can cause flu-like symptoms, including fever, joint pain, and fatigue, and can lead to chronic illness if not treated properly.
- Parasitic Infections
Cryptosporidiosis: Commonly known as Crypto, this parasitic infection is caused by Cryptosporidium and is prevalent in farm animals. It is spread through contact with contaminated water or faeces and can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea, dehydration, and abdominal pain.
- Fungal Infections
Dermatophytosis (Ringworm): A common fungal infection caused by dermatophyte fungi. It is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, particularly cats, dogs, and livestock. Symptoms include red, itchy, scaly patches on the skin.
The Legal Implications: Can a Vet Claim Compensation For a Zoonotic Infection?
Veterinary professionals who contract zoonotic infections due to negligence may be entitled to pursue a personal injury claim. Potential defendants in such claims could include:
- Educational Institutions: Universities and veterinary schools have a duty to provide adequate safety training, equipment, and information to students. Failure to do so could result in legal liability for any resulting illnesses.
- Veterinary Practices and Employers: Clinics, hospitals, and other veterinary employers must ensure that their work environments are safe and that employees are protected from the risk of infection. This includes providing proper personal protective equipment and ensuring that hygiene protocols are strictly followed.
- Placement Providers: Farms, zoos, or other facilities where students or vets undertake placements must also take responsibility for maintaining safe environments and mitigating the risk of zoonotic infections.
Compensation: What Can You Claim?
In the event of a successful personal injury claim, compensation may be awarded for the following:
- General Damages: Compensation for ‘pain, suffering, and loss of amenity’. According to the Judicial College Guidelines, compensation for moderate to severe illnesses resulting from infections can range from £3,710 to £18,020, depending on the severity and duration of the symptoms.
- Special Damages: These cover financial losses incurred as a result of the infection, including:
- Loss of Earnings: Compensation for time off work or study, including lost wages or academic fees.
- Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for treatment costs, medications, and any ongoing healthcare needs.
- Travel Expenses: Compensation for travel to and from medical appointments.
- Loss of Professional Opportunities: Compensation for any setbacks in career development or academic progress due to the infection.
Improving Safety in the Veterinary Profession
The University of Liverpool’s ongoing research project aims to address the risks of injuries and infections in the veterinary profession by identifying key areas where safety improvements can be made, exploring the context and consequences of veterinary workplace injuries and zoonotic infections, with the goal of developing industry-leading educational tools to promote injury awareness and prevention.
Dr. John Tulloch, leading the project, emphasised the importance of understanding the details of veterinary workplace injuries to implement effective prevention measures. As Dr. Tulloch stated, “Injuries that occur within veterinary practice can tragically at times be life-changing and are often avoidable. Attitude and behaviour change is needed to reduce the risk to students and normalise illness reporting.”
How We Can Help
At Slee Blackwell Solicitors, we are dedicated to helping those affected by zoonotic infections and others working as veterinary surgeons or veterinary nurses who suffer workplace injuries seek the compensation they deserve. For further guidance on, ‘Can a vet claim compensation for a zoonotic infection?’, or if you believe you may have a claim, we encourage you to contact us for expert legal advice and details of No Win, No Fee funding.
For a free consultation, call 0333 888 0404 or send an email to [email protected].
