The WCS Cambodia Wildlife Health Team tackles zoonotic disease risks where wildlife, livestock, and human health collide. In partnership with government agencies, the team has created surveillance and response protocols for diseases like lumpy skin disease (Capripoxvirus) and avian influenza (H5N1), which threaten biodiversity, livelihoods, and public health. Field teams collect samples from wildlife and livestock, train communities and law enforcement to recognize disease signs, and ensure rapid reporting and intervention.
The team's work better integrates scientific monitoring, diagnostics, and community engagement into national health systems. Additionally, the team is working to build a more robust framework to address health crises emerging from habitat loss and encroachment that better protects vulnerable ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. Gradually, the team's efforts have strengthened Cambodia’s readiness to manage future outbreaks with precision and resilience.