Although epidemics have been occurring throughout human history, they now seem to be on the rise.  Recently, the novel coronavirus disease, known as COVID-19, is a scary reminder of rising infectious diseases.  But, interestingly, most of the pandemics originated either in Asia or Africa. The reasons might be surprising.  Extreme urbanization by destroying forests to create residential areas, which eventually increases the rodents population and risk of infections. Poor conditions and vaccinations of livestock that often carry endemic diseases and remain in close contact with humans. Therefore, there is an urgent need for constructive conservation strategies in Asia and Africa to prevent deforestation and reduce animal-human interactions to stop the spread of such pandemics in the future.