Making a zoonotic disease compensation claim
We specialise in animal law, so if you are looking for solicitors to make a zoonotic disease compensation claim on your behalf then our award-winning team are here to help.
A zoonotic disease is one that can be transmitted from vertebrate animals to humans, or from human to animal. This includes farm animals such as cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and poultry, and domestic cats and dogs.
Zoonoses are particularly prevalent among those who work with animals, such as vets and farm workers.
Over 60% of human pathogens are zoonotic in origin, and this includes various of bacteria viruses, parasites, and other pathogens. Some examples of zoonotic diseases are:
- Bird flu
- Cryptosporidiosis
- Hepatitis E
- Lyme disease
- Rabies
- Ringworm
- Salmonellosis
Some zoonotic diseases can be highly dangerous to humans and even life-threatening. Consequently it is important for those who keep animals to be vigilant.
Employers in particular should take precautions to ensure that employees are kept safe. Risks should be properly assessed and all appropriate health and safety measures implemented to prevent infection. This duty extends to providing adequate training to employees, and employers who fail to comply with their duties can be held legally liable if an employee falls ill as a result.
You can read here an article that we have written about the specific risk of zoonotic infection posed to vets, veterinary nurses and veterinary students.
Visitors to farms are also at risk, especially those who are vulnerable to infection, such as children or the elderly. Owners of farms and visitor attractions which feature animals must therefore take reasonable steps to ensure visitors’ safety, and again, failure to do so may result in the owner becoming legally liable for anyone who suffers illness.
If you have become unwell after coming into contact with an animal and would like to know where you stand on making a zoonotic disease compensation claim, then contact our specialist team for a free case assessment and details of no win, no fee funding.
