Identify one major health concern in intensive animal farming.

The choice of zoonotic diseases as a major health concern in intensive animal farming is particularly relevant due to the close quarters in which animals are kept and the high density of livestock. In intensive farming systems, large numbers of animals are housed together, which can facilitate the rapid spread of pathogens. Zoonotic diseases are those that can be transmitted from animals to humans, and the risk increases significantly in settings where animals are kept in high densities.

For example, diseases such as avian influenza and swine flu have originated in intensive farming environments. The stress and crowding that animals experience in these systems can weaken their immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections and thereby posing a risk not only to their health but also to human populations.

Understanding this concern is crucial for developing management strategies that can help mitigate the risks associated with zoonoses, including better sanitation practices, vaccination programs, and monitoring of animal health. This issue underscores the importance of biosecurity measures and responsible animal husbandry practices in ensuring both animal welfare and public health.