What term is used to describe infections transmitted from animals to humans?

The term used to describe infections that are transmitted from animals to humans is "Zoonosis." Zoonotic diseases can originate from various animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, and can be spread through direct contact, bites, or contaminated food and water. Understanding zoonotic diseases is vital for public health and environmental health specialists, as these infections can significantly impact human health and require rigorous public health measures to control their spread.

In contrast, autoinfection refers to infections caused by pathogens already present in the host organism, rather than transmitted from an external source. Transpecies transmission is not a commonly used term within the context of infectious diseases, while anthroponosis specifically refers to diseases transmitted from humans to other humans, not involving animal hosts. This distinction is crucial for identifying the source of infections and implementing appropriate preventive measures.