Invisible Frontlines: Unregulated Human-Animal Interfaces and the Risk Architecture of Emerging Zoonoses

Abstract

The increasing frequency of zoonotic disease outbreaks underscores the critical role of human-animal interfaces in pathogen spillover. Despite advances in biomedical research, many high-risk interactions remain unregulated, creating gaps in global health security. This paper examines the socio-behavioral and ecological drivers of zoonotic emergence, focusing on unregulated practices such as wildlife trade, intensive farming, and habitat encroachment. By analyzing these interfaces, the study aims to identify systemic vulnerabilities in current zoonotic risk management frameworks and propose actionable policy interventions. The research employs a qualitative content analysis of peer-reviewed literature, institutional reports, and case studies to map the risk architecture of emerging zoonoses. Key findings reveal that cultural practices, economic incentives, and weak governance perpetuate high-risk human-animal interactions. Case studies of recent zoonotic outbreaks, including highly pathogenic viruses, illustrate how unregulated interfaces facilitate cross-species transmission, while existing policies often fail to address underlying socio-economic drivers. The study contributes to the One Health discourse by emphasizing the need for integrated, behavior-centered approaches to zoonotic prevention. It recommends stricter wildlife trade regulations, community-based education programs, and enhanced cross-sectoral collaboration to mitigate spillover risks. By integrating ecological, socio-behavioral, and governance dimensions, the study advances a multidimensional framework for zoonotic risk reduction, emphasizing anticipatory policy design and cross-sectoral coordination as critical complements to biomedical containment strategies.