One Health introduction
The human-animal-environment interface is part of a network that forms a web of dependencies. The One Health approach promotes a holistic perspective, encouraging professionals from various fields, such as human medicine, veterinary medicine, environmental science, public health, and more, to work together to address complex health issues. Its concept highlights that the health of these three domains is intricately connected and that the well-being of one directly influences the others.
One Health is a non-compartmentalised approach and tries to avoid silos that separate human medicine, veterinary science, environmental science, and other disciplines. It is essential to consider that humans are a part of the global ecosystem. Humans are not separate from the global ecosystem.
Fundamental principles of the One Health approach include:
Interconnection. Recognising interconnection between the health of humans, animals, and the environment is important. Diseases can spread between species, and environmental factors can influence the emergence and spread of diseases.
Collaboration. Encouraging collaboration and communication among professionals from different disciplines will help tackle health challenges comprehensively. Collaboration involves researchers, healthcare providers, veterinarians, ecologists, policymakers, and other disciplines working together.
Prevention. Emphasising proactive measures to prevent and control diseases at the human-animal-environment interface is vital. Prevention includes surveillance, early detection, and effective response strategies.
Sustainability. Considering the long-term impact of human activities on the environment is crucial. Recognising the importance of sustainable practices to safeguard the health of all living organisms is key.
Education and Awareness. Promoting education and awareness about the interconnected nature of health to professionals, policymakers, and the general public will help collaboration. Awareness includes understanding the risks associated with certain practices and fostering a sense of shared responsibility.
One Health interconnectedness
Human, animal, and environmental health impact each other.
Human health. Where domestic and wild environments encroach on each other, clashes occur between all who are trying to make a living, for example, humans raising families and wild animals raising families. The wild can encroach on human territory and cause ill health in humans, from diseases like rabies to aggressive injuries needing hospital care. Understanding ecosystem connections will help prevent and control disease outbreaks and conflicts where domestic and wild places meet.
Animal health. Human health can impact domestic and wild animals. Diseases like tuberculosis and antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections sometimes move from humans to animals. It is important to consider that One Health is not all about humans, and humans are not the centre of the universe.
Environmental health. Humans and animals get air, water, and food from environmental ecosystems and, as a result, expel their waste back into those environments. One Health recognises that environmental degradation can lead to health crises. One Health emphasises our need to preserve biodiversity and maintain the balance of our planet.
Why One Health matters
Disease resilience. Understanding and managing the complex interactions between humans, animals, and the environment can help identify potential threats before they escalate.
Sustainable practices. Embracing a One Health approach encourages sustainable agricultural practices, responsible antibiotic use, and other eco-friendly initiatives, ensuring our planet's longevity, health, and happiness for future generations.
Global impact. A collaborative, global approach is imperative in a world where One Health interfaces are increasingly porous to diseases, pollution, and climate change. One Health fosters international cooperation to tackle shared grand challenges.
Final remarks
One Health requires holistic and collaborative interactions as we stand at the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health. One Health envisions a future that safeguards the well-being of our planet and everything on it. By adopting a One Health approach, stakeholders aim to improve overall health outcomes, enhance disease surveillance and response, and create a more resilient and sustainable global health system.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.
One Health case studies
These case studies show the impact that a One Health approach can have.
Case Study 1:
Mitigating a zoonotic disease outbreak
Background: In a rural community, the emergence of a zoonotic disease threatened human and animal populations. Initial investigations revealed a link between the illness in humans and the health of local livestock.
The One Health approach resulted in:
Integrated surveillance. Public health officials, veterinarians, and environmental scientists collaborated to establish an integrated surveillance system. Integrated surveillance simultaneously monitored human, animal, and ecosystem health.
Community engagement. The community was actively involved in various processes. Education campaigns raised awareness about disease transmission between animals and humans. Local farmers received additional training on animal husbandry practices.
Treatment and control measures. Simultaneous health interventions were implemented for humans and animals, improving ecosystem health. Health interventions included vaccinations for livestock, improved sanitation practices, and access to healthcare for humans.
Outcomes included:
Disease control. The integrated approach resulted in the early detection and control of the zoonotic disease, preventing its spread within the community.
Sustainable practices. The community adopted sustainable farming practices, reducing the risk of future zoonotic outbreaks and improving overall livestock health.
Community empowerment. The collaboration between health professionals and the community fostered a sense of empowerment, equipping locals with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves against similar threats.
Case Study 2:
Addressing antibiotic resistance in an urban centre
Background: Rapid urbanisation and increased demand for meat led to the widespread use of antibiotics in livestock. Misuse contributed to increased numbers of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose a significant threat to animal and human health.
The One Health approach resulted in:
Surveillance and monitoring. A multidisciplinary team, including veterinarians, doctors, and environmental scientists, initiated a comprehensive surveillance programme to monitor antibiotic use in livestock and identify resistant strains, their numbers, and environmental contamination.
Regulatory measures. Working closely with policymakers, the team advocated for and implemented regulations to restrict the use of certain antibiotics. Targeted education campaigns complemented regulatory measures.
Alternative Farming Practices. Food producers were provided resources and support to transition to sustainable farming practices.
Outcomes included:
Reduction in antibiotic resistance. The combined efforts led to a significant decrease in antibiotic resistance in animals and humans, enhancing the effectiveness of antibiotic treatments.
Economic sustainability. The transition to sustainable farming improved the long-term financial viability of local agriculture, creating a more resilient and environmentally friendly food system.
Policy impact. The success of the One Health approach influenced broader policy changes at the national level, promoting sustainable practices and responsible antibiotic use.
Final remarks
These case studies demonstrate the versatility of the One Health approach. This approach can address diverse challenges, like zoonotic disease in rural areas and antibiotic resistance in urban centers. These case studies underscore the importance of collaboration between human, animal, and environmental science experts to achieve positive outcomes for communities and ecosystems.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.
One Health and disease prevention and control
Traditionally, disease prevention and control approaches are separate in human, animal, and environmental health. However, One Health concerns connections between each and encourages a collaborative, integrated strategy to safeguard global well-being.
Early detection and surveillance
Human and animal surveillance networks. One Health establishes comprehensive surveillance systems that monitor human and animal health, enabling early potential outbreak detection.
Environmental monitoring. Integrating environmental data into surveillance helps identify ecological factors that might increase or decrease disease spread.
Zoonotic disease management
Preventing spillover events. One Health encourages education and understanding to mitigate the factors that lead to disease transmission between animals and humans.
Collaborative research. Human and veterinary medicine scientists work together to study zoonotic diseases, enabling a more holistic understanding of effective disease prevention.
Vaccination and immunisation programmes
Cross-species vaccination. One Health encourages developing and implementing vaccines that benefit human and animal populations, reducing the disease transmission risk.
Community engagement. Educational campaigns on the importance of vaccination for humans and animals enhance community participation.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) initiatives
Responsible antibiotic use. One Health tackles the global AMR challenge by promoting responsible antibiotic use.
Surveillance of AMR. To guide effective interventions, integrated surveillance systems monitor antibiotic resistance in humans, animals, and environmental samples.
Ecosystem health and disease resilience
Preserving biodiversity. One Health recognises ecosystems health's role in preventing disease emergence and spread, highlighting the need for biodiversity conservation.
Climate change adaptation. Addressing the impact of climate change on disease vectors and patterns contributes to building resilience against emerging health threats.
Rapid response and emergency preparedness
Interdisciplinary rapid response teams. One Health facilitates the formation of interdisciplinary teams capable of swift responses to emerging diseases.
Joint crisis planning. Collaboration between human and veterinary health systems ensures coordinated responses during public health emergencies.
Final remarks
One Health is not a theoretical framework. One Health is a pragmatic and proactive approach to disease prevention and control. By recognising the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, we pave the way for a future where diseases are detected early, mitigated effectively, and controlled collaboratively.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.
One Health and climate change
The connection between climate change and the human-animal-environment interface becomes more pronounced as time goes on. The One Health approach recognises this interconnectedness and encourages collaborative strategies to address deficiencies.
Rising temperatures and infectious diseases
Vector-borne diseases. One Health acknowledges the influence of rising temperatures on the geographic distribution of disease vectors, leading to an increased prevalence of diseases such as malaria and dengue fever.
Collaborative research. Epidemiologists, climatologists, and veterinarians can collaborate to study the relationship between climate patterns and the spread of infectious diseases.
Extreme weather events and health resilience
Preparing for disasters. One Health emphasises the need for joint preparedness efforts to mitigate the health impacts of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.
Community health resilience. Integrated strategy developments enhance communities' resilience, including providing healthcare during and after climate-related disasters.
Food security and nutrition
Impact on agriculture. One Health recognises the vulnerability of agriculture to climate change, affecting food production and quality.
Collaborative solutions. Nutritionists, veterinarians, and environmental scientists collaborate to ensure food security, considering the impacts on human and animal populations.
Water scarcity and health challenges
Waterborne diseases. One Health addresses the increased risk of waterborne diseases due to altered precipitation patterns and water scarcity.
Cross-sectoral strategies. Collaboration between water resource management, public health, and veterinary experts ensures comprehensive approaches to water-related health challenges.
Air quality and respiratory health
Impact on respiratory diseases. One Health recognises the connection between climate-induced changes in air quality and the prevalence of respiratory diseases in humans and animals.
Integrative solutions. Public health officials, veterinarians, and environmental agencies collaborate on measures to improve air quality and safeguard respiratory health.
Ecosystem preservation and health equity
Biodiversity loss. One Health underscores the importance of preserving biodiversity to maintain ecological balance and prevent the emergence of new diseases.
Social equity. Strategies for ecosystem preservation consider the social and economic impact on vulnerable populations, promoting health equity.
Final remarks
As climate change reshapes our world, a unified and interdisciplinary approach to health is critical. One Health is a resilient framework, weaving together the threads of climate science, human medicine, veterinary care, and environmental stewardship.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.
One Health and antimicrobial resistance
The One Health approach recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health concern that fits well within the framework of One Health.
AMR occurs when microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, evolve and develop resistance to the drugs designed to eliminate them. This resistance can result from the overuse or misuse of antimicrobial drugs, leading to the survival and proliferation of resistant strains.
The One Health approach to AMR involves coordinated efforts to address the issue across different sectors.
Human health
Enhancing stewardship in the use of antibiotics in healthcare settings will promote responsible prescribing practices. And educating healthcare professionals and the public about the importance of completing antibiotic courses will reduce misuse.
Animal health
Implementing responsible use of antimicrobials in veterinary medicine, including proper diagnosis and prescription, and promoting good animal husbandry practices to prevent the spread of infections will reduce antimicrobial drug resistance.
Environmental health
Addressing the environmental impact of antimicrobial residues from human and animal waste and the release of antibiotics into water systems will improve environmental health. Improving environmental health includes better waste management practices and monitoring water sources.
Surveillance and research
Establishing robust surveillance systems to monitor the prevalence of AMR in humans, animals, and the environment will increase awareness of what is happening where. Research efforts are crucial to understanding resistance mechanisms and developing new antimicrobial agents.
Global cooperation
Recognising that AMR is a global challenge that requires international collaboration is vitally important. Countries must work together to develop and implement strategies, share data, and support each other in addressing the issue.
Final remarks
Addressing AMR requires a comprehensive, collaborative effort. By considering the complex interactions between these elements, we can develop more effective strategies to combat the growing threat of AMR.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.
One Health and food security
One Health is relevant to food security as it recognises the interconnectedness of how human health, animal health, and the environment, all play roles in ensuring safe and secure food systems. Food security is a key component of public health, and a One Health perspective acknowledges that the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems is linked in the context of foodborne diseases and contamination.
Here are some key aspects of the One Health approach to food security:
Zoonotic diseases
Many infectious diseases that affect humans have their origins in animals. Zoonotic diseases can transmit between animals and humans, often by consuming contaminated food. One Health emphasises surveillance and control measures at the human-animal-environment interface to prevent the spread of zoonotic pathogens.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
The use of antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents in human and animal health contributes to the development of AMR. AMR can impact the security of the food supply chain as resistant bacteria may be present in food products. One Health involves prudent use of human and animal antimicrobials to mitigate the risk of AMR.
Collaboration across sectors
Collaboration between public health agencies, veterinary services, agriculture, and environmental agencies is essential for effective food security management. Collaboration includes coordinated efforts in surveillance, risk assessment, and response to foodborne disease outbreaks.
Safe agricultural practices
One Health advocates for safe and sustainable agricultural practices that minimise the risk of contamination during food production, processing, and distribution. Safe practices include proper hygiene, animal husbandry practices, and environmental management to reduce the introduction of pathogens into the food supply chain.
Global perspective
Food security is a worldwide issue, and One Health encourages international collaboration to address food security challenges. Collaboration includes sharing information, best practices, and technologies to enhance global food security standards.
Education and communication
Raising awareness and educating stakeholders, including farmers, food producers, consumers, and healthcare professionals, is crucial for promoting safe food practices. Raising awareness involves communication about proper food handling, storage, and cooking and the importance of seeking medical attention for foodborne illnesses.
Final remarks
One Health recognises the complex interactions between humans, animals, and the environment in the context of the food supply chain. By fostering collaboration and adopting preventive measures, the goal is to ensure the safety and security of the global food system for the well-being of humans and animals.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.
One Health and education resources
One Health education materials cover various topics related to the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
The following are types of resources and places where you can find them.
Websites and organisations
One Health Commission. The One Health Commission has resources for different global regions (https://www.onehealthcommission.org/).
One Health Initiative. The One Health Initiative (https://onehealthinitiative.com/) provides information, articles, and resources on One Health concepts.
World Health Organization (WHO) - One Health. The WHO has resources and publications related to One Health (https://www.who.int/europe/initiatives/one-health).
One Health European Joint Programme (OHEJP). The OHEJP outlines its work plan concerning One Health (https://onehealthejp.eu/).
United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - One Health. The CDC offers information on their One Health programme (https://www.cdc.gov/onehealth/index.html).
Educational courses and programmes
Check universities and institutions that offer courses or programmes in One Health. Many institutions recognise the importance of interdisciplinary education in One Health.
Coursera and edX. These online learning platforms may have courses related to One Health. Search for courses offered by reputable institutions and organisations.
Publications and journals
Explore scientific journals and publications that focus on One Health topics. Examples include
International Journal of One Health - https://www.onehealthjournal.org/
One Health Journal - https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/one-health
One Health Outlook - https://onehealthoutlook.biomedcentral.com/
Conferences and webinars
Attend One Health conferences and webinars to gain insights from experts and researchers. Keep an eye on events organised by institutions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and international bodies.
Government health agencies
National health agencies often have resources related to One Health. For example, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) provide valuable information.
Books and reports
Look for books and reports authored by experts in One Health. Recommended readings includes "One Health: People, Animals, and the Environment" by Ronald M. Atlas and Stanley Maloy.
Final remarks
Remember to explore online databases, academic libraries, and resources from local health authorities and veterinary agencies. As the field of One Health is dynamic, staying updated with the latest research and information is essential.
Let me know if you want me to list your One Health website on this page.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024 - ongoing.
One Health and legislation and policies
One Health legislation and policies refer to legal frameworks and regulatory measures that address the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and environmental health within the context of the One Health approach. These policies promote collaboration across different sectors to address health challenges comprehensively.
While the specifics vary by country, region, and jurisdiction, here are some common themes and examples of One Health legislation and policies:
Zoonotic disease surveillance and control
Legislation can establish mechanisms to monitor and control diseases transmitted between animals and humans. Monitoring includes requirements for reporting and responding to outbreaks that involve human and animal health authorities.
Antimicrobial stewardship
Policy development can increase the responsible use of antimicrobials in human and animal healthcare. Antimicrobial stewardship can include regulations on the use of antibiotics in livestock, guidelines for prescribing in human medicine, and measures to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Environmental protection
Legislation can help monitor environmental factors that impact health, such as contamination of water sources or the release of pollutants that may affect human and animal populations.
Food safety regulations
Regulations can help govern food production and distribution safety, recognising the interconnected nature of the food supply chain involving humans and animals. Regulations can include measures to prevent and control foodborne illnesses.
Cross-sectoral collaboration
Legal frameworks can help encourage collaboration between human health, animal health, and environmental agencies. Legal frameworks might involve the establishment of inter-agency committees or task forces to address health issues holistically.
Research and surveillance funding
Legislation can allocate funding for research and surveillance efforts related to One Health issues. Allocated funding can support interdisciplinary research projects and the development of surveillance systems.
Education and outreach programmes
Policies can help support educational initiatives to raise awareness about the One Health approach among healthcare professionals, veterinarians, researchers, other disciplines, and the public.
International cooperation
Legislation can help enable and promote collaboration on One Health issues internationally. Cooperation can involve participation in global initiatives, information sharing, and joint efforts to address transboundary health challenges.
Final remarks
The development and implementation of One Health legislation and policies vary widely across different regions and countries. Some countries integrated One Health principles into existing laws and regulations, while others have specific legislation dedicated to addressing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Policymakers work in consultation with experts from various fields to ensure that legislation effectively addresses the complex challenges associated with the One Health approach.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.
One Health and community engagement
Community engagement is a crucial component of the One Health approach. One Health recognises that the health of humans, animals, and the environment are interconnected. Community engagement involves actively including and collaborating with communities to address health issues comprehensively.
Here are some strategies and considerations for One Health community engagement:
Education and awareness
Conduct educational campaigns to raise awareness about the One Health concept, emphasising the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
Provide information about zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and the impact of environmental factors on health.
Collaborative research
Involve community members in research initiatives related to One Health issues. Engage with local communities to gather information, share findings, and address specific health concerns.
Encourage citizen science projects where community members collect data or monitor activity.
Local health workshops and training
Organise workshops and training sessions at the community level to educate residents about essential health and hygiene practices.
Include topics such as proper waste disposal, safe food handling, and responsible use of human and animal antimicrobials.
Community-based surveillance
Establish community-based surveillance systems where residents monitor and report unusual health events, disease outbreaks, or environmental changes.
Provide training on recognising and reporting signs of diseases in humans and animals.
Livestock and agriculture programmes
Work with local farmers and livestock keepers to promote sustainable and responsible agricultural practices.
Provide guidance on animal health, vaccination programmes, and disease prevention measures within the community.
Communication channels
Utilise local communication channels, including community meetings, radio, and community health workers, to disseminate information about One Health.
Develop culturally appropriate communication materials to reach diverse populations effectively.
Partnerships with local organisations
Collaborate with local community organisations, NGOs, and grassroots movements to strengthen the impact of One Health initiatives.
Establish partnerships that involve mutual learning and capacity building.
Addressing cultural practices
Respect and understand local cultural practices and beliefs that may influence health-related behaviours.
Work with communities to find culturally sensitive solutions to health challenges.
Feedback and two-way communication
Establish mechanisms for two-way communication between health authorities and communities. Encourage feedback, questions, and concerns from community members.
Create platforms for ongoing dialogue to ensure that decision-makers consider community perspectives.
Empowerment and capacity building
Empower community members by providing them with the knowledge and tools to promote health.
Build local capacity for sustainable health interventions, including training community health workers and volunteers.
Final remarks
Effective community engagement in One Health initiatives requires a culturally sensitive and participatory approach, where communities are considered partners in improving health outcomes for all living beings.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.
One Health and technology and innovation
One Health technology and innovation play a crucial role in addressing complex health challenges at the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health.
Here are some areas where technology and innovation contribute to the One Health approach:
Diagnostics and surveillance
Advanced diagnostics. Innovative diagnostic technologies, such as rapid tests and molecular diagnostics, enable quicker and more accurate identification of diseases in humans and animals.
Surveillance Systems. Data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning help monitor and predict disease outbreaks, facilitating early intervention.
Telemedicine and telehealth
Telemedicine enables remote healthcare consultations and services, connecting healthcare providers with patients and veterinarians in different locations.
Telehealth platforms can be used for remote monitoring of patients and animals, especially in areas with limited access to healthcare.
Genomics and sequencing
Genomics and DNA sequencing advances contribute to understanding the genetic basis of diseases, tracking the spread of pathogens, and developing targeted treatments and vaccines.
Comparative genomics aids in studying the evolution and transmission of diseases across species.
Wearable technology
Wearable devices for humans and animals can monitor health parameters in real-time, providing valuable data for preventive healthcare and early detection of diseases.
GPS tracking and sensors on animals can assist in understanding movement patterns and potential disease transmission.
Precision agriculture
Technologies in agriculture, such as precision farming and smart sensors, contribute to sustainable practices and minimise the use of antimicrobials.
Precision agriculture can help prevent the spread of diseases from animals to humans through the food supply chain.
Environmental monitoring
Remote sensing, satellite imagery, and sensor networks help monitor environmental changes, pollution levels, and the impact of climate change on health.
Environmental monitoring technologies contribute to the early detection of potential health threats.
Vaccine development and delivery
Vaccine developments, including novel platforms like mRNA vaccines, contribute to preventing the spread of infectious diseases in humans and animals.
Innovations in vaccine delivery systems, such as oral or vector-based vaccines, offer new approaches to disease control.
Blockchain technology
Blockchain can be utilised for transparent and secure data sharing across stakeholders in the One Health ecosystem.
Blockchain helps create a decentralised and immutable health data record, facilitating trust and collaboration.
Robotics and automation
Robots and automated systems can assist in tasks like sample collection, laboratory analysis, and delivering medical supplies and vaccines to remote areas.
Automation enhances efficiency and reduces the risk of human exposure to infectious agents.
Data integration platforms
Platforms integrating data from various sources (human health records, veterinary data, environmental data) provide a comprehensive view of health dynamics.
Integrated data can inform evidence-based decision-making for One Health initiatives.
Final remarks
Technology and innovation play a pivotal role in advancing the goals of the One Health approach. Integrating these advances allows for a more holistic understanding of health challenges and enables collaborative efforts to address them across human, animal, and environmental domains.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.
One Health and global collaboration
Worldwide collaboration is fundamental to One Health success. One Health recognises the importance of the human-animal-environment interface to global well-being. Addressing complex health challenges requires coordinated efforts on a worldwide scale.
Here are some critical aspects of One Health global collaboration:
International organisations
Collaborative efforts often involve international organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH, founded as OIE). These organisations work together to address health challenges that transcend borders.
Joint research initiatives
Collaborative research projects bring together experts from different countries and disciplines to study and understand health issues. Research initiatives can include joint efforts to investigate zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental health concerns.
Global surveillance networks
Establishing and maintaining global surveillance networks helps monitor the spread of diseases, track emerging threats, and share information across borders. These networks contribute to early detection and rapid response.
International conferences and workshops
Conferences and workshops provide platforms for professionals from various countries to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and collaborate on research and solutions. These events facilitate networking and the development of joint strategies.
Information sharing and communication
Open and transparent communication and information sharing are critical for global collaboration. Rapid dissemination of information about disease outbreaks, research findings, and best practices helps stakeholders make informed decisions.
Capacity building programmes
International collaboration often includes capacity-building programmes that aim to strengthen the skills and resources of healthcare professionals, veterinarians, and researchers in different regions.
Cross-border surveillance and response
Coordinated efforts for cross-border surveillance and response mechanisms help prevent the spread of diseases across regions. Surveillance and response mechanisms involve close communication and collaboration between neighbouring countries.
Global Health Security Agenda
The Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) is an international partnership that aims to build countries' capacities to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats. It involves collaboration between governments, international organisations, and other stakeholders.
Multidisciplinary teams
Global collaboration requires the involvement of multidisciplinary teams that include professionals from human health, veterinary medicine, environmental science, and other relevant fields. This interdisciplinary approach enhances the understanding and management of health challenges.
Public-private partnerships
Collaboration between public and private sectors, including pharmaceutical companies, technology firms, and non-profit organisations, can accelerate the development of innovative solutions and technologies for One Health challenges.
Joint policy development
Countries can collaborate on developing common policies and guidelines related to One Health issues, ensuring a harmonised and coordinated global response.
Disease-specific alliances
Alliances focused on specific diseases, such as the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, showcase the success of global collaboration in achieving common health goals.
Final remarks
One Health global collaboration is essential for effectively addressing emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and other health challenges that have far-reaching implications. It requires sustained commitment, information sharing, and coordinated action among nations and international organisations to promote the health and well-being of populations worldwide.
Attributed to Jen Bell in January 2024.