Emergency diseases

Dr Robert Dixon, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney.

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Social issues

The impact on society of an emergency disease was long ignored and probably reflected the fact that for much of the 20th Century, society had faced major international conflicts and periods of economic hardship. Since the World War 2 there has been an exponential growth in wealth in most Western countries, and as a consequence individuals and society in general, no longer have to focus solely on economic survival.

Personal impact on individual producers

When so much is invested in an animal production enterprise by an individual, whether it be finances or time and energy, much is lost with the animal disease emergency. The reality of this loss cannot be ignored and will impact on the producers and their families at an emotional, psychological and spiritual level. There were numerous reports of severe depression in so-affected people, and well-documented cases of suicide in the recent UK outbreak of FMD. There may be feelings of guilt, even though the individual may have been an innocent victim. Other members of the community may be critical, gossip or ostracise the individual, further compounding his/her isolation or psychological ill-health.

Social impact on local communities

Relationships within the local community may deteriorate either through disruption of normal discourse or through suspicion or fear. Some community members may be angry about this disruption to business and social activity.

Social impact on the national community

It is hard to predict what impact an emergency disease outbreak would have on the country as a whole, as there are many variables that could be involved. Some areas that also have economic implications, would include difficulties in transportation, especially around quarantine areas, disruption to tourism and to sporting, entertainment and other public events.

Environmental issues


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