Epidemiological studies of transmissible diseases in ruminants in southern Spain

Small ruminants represent the most vulnerable livestock sector in the European Union (EU) and currently face numerous challenges. Among these, transmissible diseases are particularly relevant due to their significant health and socioeconomic consequences, which can affect the sector’s viability. In Andalusia (southern Spain), a key region driving Spain's sheep and goat sector, knowledge about several pathogens affecting these species remains limited. Additionally, in this region, small ruminants are often extensively raised, sharing habitat, resources, and pathogens with wildlife. Effective control of these shared pathogens, some of which are also of public health concern, requires a One Health approach that involves all stakeholders to reduce transmission between humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. We conducted different studies to improve the understanding of the epidemiology of pathogens shared between small domestic ruminants and wild ruminants in southern Spain.