Human-animal contact and zoonotic exposure from wild and domestic animals: A cross-sectional study in wildlife-rich areas of Bolivia, Chile, and Guatemala.

INTRODUCTION: Human-animal contact (HAC) is a key driver of zoonotic disease emergence and transmission, yet population-based data from Latin America remain limited. The objective of this study was to characterize HAC patterns and estimate zoonotic exposure in wildlife-rich settings across Bolivia, Chile, and Guatemala.

METHODS: A cross-sectional questionnaire was administered to 2389 participants in rural, urban, and protected areas to assess direct, indirect, and foodborne contact with domestic and wild animals. Patterns of HAC were visualized using heatmaps, and a proxy-based exposure index was developed based on literature-derived weightings for rabies, brucellosis, and bovine tuberculosis. Associations with sociodemographic and knowledge-related factors were analyzed using multivariable regression models.

RESULTS: Overall, 92% of participants reported domestic animal contact-most frequently with dogs, cats, poultry, and swine-while 32% reported wild animal contact, predominantly with wild birds, rodents, and bats. 99% of individuals with wildlife contact also reported contact with domestic animals. Direct interactions, including ownership, handling, and slaughtering, were most common, whereas indirect and foodborne contacts were less frequent. Adolescents and participants with lower income and education showed higher exposure scores. However, in adjusted models, country and area of residence were the most consistent determinants of exposure. Rural residence was associated with greater exposure to brucellosis and bovine tuberculosis, and prior zoonosis training with lower exposure to rabies.

CONCLUSION: The study highlights the co-occurrence of wildlife and domestic human-animal contacts. Further research integrating HAC, pathogen surveillance, and host vulnerability with a One Health approach is critical for identifying high-risk human-animal-environment interfaces.