Figure 1.

Potential for Viral Emergence in Live and Wet Markets.

These markets bring together humans, both retailers and customers, with animals. Both wild and domestic animals may be for sale live or slaughtered, as well as sold as ready-to-eat foods. In addition, the markets are places that attract scavenging animals and pests. The often-crowded conditions, and lack of sanitation, create optimal circumstances for the spread of zoonotic and foodborne diseases, as well as the emergence of new viruses.