John,

In the past 40 years, the worst human pandemics and epidemics — HIV, SARS, avian flu, swine flu, Ebola and Zika — all stemmed from trading or consuming animals and destroying their habitat.

The solution couldn't be clearer: Ban wildlife trade to reduce disease risk and save animals from overexploitation.

But when asked if banning wildlife trade is a priority last week, President Trump just shrugged. That's the wrong response.

Tell Congress to block trade now to save wildlife and help prevent future pandemics.

Zoonotic diseases are spread from animals, usually vertebrates, to humans — and approximately 70% of these diseases come from wildlife.

The United States is one of the world's top importers of wildlife, responsible for an estimated 20% of the global wildlife market. Getting a handle on this rampant trade is a very clear priority.

The Center for Biological Diversity is already in court fighting for endangered species protection for pangolins, the world's most highly trafficked mammals. The Center has curtailed the trade in reptiles in 10 states and continues to crack down on the reptile trade nationwide.

By capturing, trading and slaughtering wildlife, humans are spreading disease.

We'll fight species by species, but the best way to protect wildlife and prevent pandemics is to shut down the global trade and overexploitation of animals.

Tell Congress to ban the wildlife trade that's endangering animals — and us.