ONE WORLD – ONE HEALTH : PREVENT ZOONOSES
INTRODUCTION:-
The well-being of people, animals, and the environment is linked close in today’s interdependent world. The growth and spread of zoonotic diseases, ailments transferred from animals to people, have underlined the need for a worldwide strategy to preserve the public’s health.
One Health is a collaborative, multisectoral, cross-sectoral approach by working at local, national, regional, and global levels with the goal of achieving optimal health outcomes that recognize the inter-connection between people, animals, plants, and their shared environment.
Zoonotic diseases, infectious agents shared between animals and people, are a formidable challenge to one health. Evolving conditions at the human-animal-environment interference due to factors like climate change, land use change, and increasing travel and trade have directly and indirectly affected the emergence and re-emergence of zoonotic diseases.
Despite increasing awareness of the One Health approach, a lack of communication and coordination between human health, animal health, and environment sectors can still hinder implementation. Internationally, the Tripartite organizations, namely the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), and the World Health Organization (WHO), have exemplified using a multisectoral, One Health approach
through mandated inter-agency collaboration, and endorsement of One Health to facilitate sustained collaboration for zoonotic disease control at the local, subnational, national, regional, and international levels through the guide, “Taking a Multisectoral, One Health Approach: A Tripartite Guide to Addressing Zoonotic Diseases in Countries”.
A One Health approach can be applied broadly to support overarching systems that improve multisectoral, One Health coordination or the approach can be applied to specific topics, such as antimicrobial resistance, climate change, zoonotic disease control, or food safety and security.
As a comprehensive approach to preventing zoonoses and ensuring the well-being of all living things, the idea of “One World, One Health” has gained traction. We can all work together to create a safer and healthier future by acknowledging the interconnectivity of ecosystems and encouraging cooperation across all sectors.
UNDERSTANDING ZOONOTIC DISEASES :
Animals provide many benefits to people. Many people interact with animals in their daily lives, both at home and away from home. Animals provide food, fiber, livelihoods, travel, sport, companionship, and education for people across the globe. Millions of households in the United States have one or more pets. We might come into contact with animals in either urban or rural settings, during travel, while visiting animal exhibits, or while enjoying outdoor activities.
However, animals can sometimes carry harmful germs that can spread to people and cause illness – these are known as zoonotic diseases or zoonoses. Zoonotic diseases are caused by harmful germs like viruses, bacterial, parasites, and fungi. These germs can cause many different types of illnesses in people and animals, ranging from mild to serious illness and even death. Animals can sometimes appear healthy even when they are carrying germs that can make people sick, depending on the zoonotic disease.
Zoonotic diseases are very common, both in the United States and around the world. Scientists estimate that more than 6 out of every 10 known infectious diseases in people can be spread from animals, and 3 out of every 4 new or emerging infectious diseases in people come from animals. Because of this, CDC works 24/7 to protect people from zoonotic diseases in the United States and around the world.
TYPES OF ZOONOTIC DISEASES:-
Common zoonotic illnesses include:
Rabies
Rabies is a disease that affects the nervous system of mammals. It is usually caused by a virus and is transmitted if an infected animal bites a person or other animal. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. However, rabies vaccines exist and are commonly available.
Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Lyme disease is transmitted through tick bites. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, but they can be treated using antibiotics.
Dengue, malaria, and chikungunya
These are mosquito-borne diseases and are more common in certain areas, such as the Caribbean. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and headaches. It is vital to treat these conditions as soon as possible, as they can be fatal.
Salmonella infection
Salmonella is often caused by handling reptiles or amphibians that carry Salmonella, or by handling baby chicks or ducks.
The illness usually lasts for between 4 and 7 days Trusted Source, and symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. People can usually recover without medical treatment, although conservative measures are recommended.
- coli infection
This infection is often caused by touching infected animals or handling contaminated food. Cows also have E. coli germs on their udders. Often associated with food poisoning, salmonella can cause vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. It is essential that infected people rest and drink plenty of fluids.
Psittacosis
Also known as ornithosis or parrot fever, psittacosis is a bacterial disease that most often affects birds. Humans can get it from feathers, secretions, and droppings. Symptoms include fever, headache, and dry cough. In serious cases, it may cause pneumonia and require a hospital visit.
Other types
There are hundreds of zoonotic diseases, but many are rare. Other well-known types include:
anthrax
avian influenza or bird flu
bovine tuberculosis
brucellosis
cat scratch fever
Ebola
West Nile virus
Hansen’s disease (leprosy)
Zika fever
trichinosis
swine influenza
histoplasmosis
HOW DO GERMS SPREAD BETWEEN ANIMALS AND PEOPLE:-
Because of the close connection between people and animals, it’s important to be aware of the common ways people can get infected with germs that can cause zoonotic diseases.
These can include:
Direct contact: Coming into contact with the saliva, blood, urine, mucous, feces, or other body fluids of an infected animal. Examples include petting or touching animals, and bites or scratches.
Indirect contact: Coming into contact with areas where animals live and roam, or objects or surfaces that have been contaminated with germs. Examples include aquarium tank water, pet habitats, chicken coops, barns, plants, and soil, as well as pet food and water dishes.
Vector-borne: Being bitten by a tick, or an insect like a mosquito or a flea.
Foodborne: Each year, 1 in 6 Americans get sick from eating contaminated food. Eating or drinking something unsafe, such as unpasteurized (raw) milk, undercooked meat or eggs, or raw fruits and vegetables that are contaminated with feces from an infected animal. Contaminated food can cause illness in people and animals, including pets.
Waterborne: Drinking or coming in contact with water that has been contaminated with feces from an infected animal.
HOW ONE HEALTH APPROACH CAN EFFECTIVELY PREVENT ZOONOSES AND PROTECT BOTH HUMAN AND ANIMAL POPULATIONS:-
Integrated Surveillance Systems:
The One Health approach emphasizes the integration of human health, veterinary medicine, and environmental science in disease surveillance. By combining data from various sources, such as human health records, animal disease monitoring, and ecological studies, we can detect potential zoonotic threats at an early stage. Integrated surveillance systems allow for timely identification, tracking, and response to emerging diseases, reducing the risk of widespread outbreaks.
Collaborative Research and Data Sharing:
Effective prevention of zoonotic diseases relies on interdisciplinary research and the sharing of knowledge and data among different sectors. Collaboration between human health professionals, veterinarians, ecologists, and other scientists facilitates a deeper understanding of disease transmission dynamics, risk factors, and ecological interactions. By pooling resources and expertise, we can develop evidence-based strategies to prevent zoonoses and mitigate their impact.
Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies:
The One Health approach enables comprehensive risk assessment by considering the complex interactions between humans, animals, and the environment. By identifying high-risk areas, activities, and populations, proactive measures can be implemented to reduce the likelihood of zoonotic spillover events. This may involve implementing biosecurity measures on farms, regulating wildlife trade, or improving hygiene practices in communities. Targeted interventions based on risk assessment can effectively minimize the transmission of zoonotic pathogens.
Vaccination and Disease Control:
Vaccination plays a crucial role in preventing zoonotic diseases, both in animals and humans. The One Health approach recognizes the importance of vaccinating animals, particularly livestock and pets, to prevent the introduction and spread of zoonotic pathogens. Simultaneously, ensuring widespread access to vaccines for humans, especially those at high risk of exposure, helps to break the transmission cycle. A coordinated approach to vaccination programs strengthens overall disease control efforts.
Environmental Conservation and Health:
Healthy ecosystems are essential for preventing zoonotic diseases. The degradation of natural habitats and disruption of ecological balance can lead to increased contact between humans, animals, and disease-carrying vectors. The One Health approach emphasizes the protection of biodiversity, sustainable land use practices, and conservation of ecosystems. Preserving intact ecosystems reduces the chances of zoonotic spillover events and safeguards the health of both wildlife and human populations.
Education and Public Awareness:
Educating communities about zoonotic diseases and the One Health approach is crucial in preventing their transmission. Promoting awareness of the risks associated with wildlife trade, the importance of good hygiene practices, responsible pet ownership, and the benefits of vaccination helps individuals make informed decisions and take preventive measures. By engaging the public through educational campaigns and community outreach, we empower people to become active participants in preventing zoonoses.
Policy and International Cooperation:
Effective prevention of zoonoses requires strong policy frameworks and international cooperation. Governments, health agencies, and international organizations must collaborate to develop and enforce regulations related to animal health, wildlife trade, and food safety. Sharing information, resources, and best practices across borders strengthens global health security and enhances the capacity to respond to zoonotic threats collectively.
PREVENTION AND CONTROL:-
Proper personal hyiegine:-
- Wash hands before and after animal handling.
- Do not eat or drink in the animal housing areas.
- Wear coveralls, farm-specific clothing, or a laboratory coat when handling animals.
- Avoid handling sick animals or animals with lesions unless gloved.
- Wear a mask if you are allergic to animal hair or dander or if feed or bedding dust is present.
- If you are sick, do not enter the agricultural animal facilities. you are more suspectable to other infective agents and you may transfer pathogens to the animals.
- Routinely wear gloves when cleaning animal areas.
- Note the progression of any illness. Report illness to your supervisor.
- Inform the physician of your animal-related activities.
Environmental maintenance:-
- Keep animal housing areas well organized and clean.
- Avoid urine and fecal buildup. Dry feces results in fecal dust which may be inhaled.
- Clean rooms have a lower likelihood of horizontal or zoonotic transfer.
- Proper ventilation protects the animal workers
- Clean feed and bedding from the floor. Litter attracts vermin which may introduce a zoonotic disease into the facility.
Flock maintenance:-
- Observe animals for health status on a daily basis.
- Report sick or dead animals.
CONCLUSION:-
In conclusion, the One Health approach represents a paradigm shift in addressing the complex challenges of zoonotic diseases. By recognizing the interdependence of human health, animal health, and the environment, One Health offers a holistic framework for prevention, detection, and response to zoonoses.
Implementing the principles of collaboration, early detection, risk assessment, and research and innovation, One Health enables a more proactive and integrated approach to disease control. By breaking down disciplinary silos and fostering cooperation among diverse sectors, One Health promotes the sharing of knowledge, resources, and expertise, leading to more effective and sustainable solutions.
The importance of One Health has become even more evident in the wake of recent zoonotic disease outbreaks, such as COVID-19. These events highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of disease emergence, including wildlife-human interactions, habitat destruction, and global travel patterns.
By embracing the One Health approach, governments, organizations, and communities can work together to strengthen surveillance systems, improve biosecurity measures, and promote responsible use of antibiotics. Additionally, by promoting wildlife conservation and sustainable practices, One Health contributes to the prevention of zoonotic spillover events.
However, the success of One Health relies on sustained commitment investment from all stakeholders. Governments must prioritize interdisciplinary collaboration, allocate resources, and establish effective communication channels between human and animal health sectors. Researchers and scientists need to continue advancing knowledge and developing innovative tools and strategies.
Ultimately, by adopting the One Health approach, we can proactively protect public health, preserve biodiversity, and create a more resilient and interconnected global community. It is through collective efforts and a shared understanding of the intricate relationships between humans, animals, and the environment that we can prevent and mitigate the devastating impact of zoonotic diseases, ensuring a healthier and safer future for generations to come.
Biswajit Padhi , BVSc & AH SOA DU
REFERENCE :-
- CDC.GOV.IN
- MISSION RABIES. WVS DATA COLLECTION APP,
http://www.missionrabies.com/app
- World Health Organization, World Organisation for Animal Health, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations & Global Alliance for Rabies Control. Zero by 30: Te Global Strategic Plan to End Human Deaths by Dog-Mediated Rabies by 2030.
(World Health Organization, World Organisation for Animal Health, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations,
Global Alliance for Rabies Control, 2018).
- World Health Organization, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations & World Organisation for Animal Health.
High-Level Technical Meeting to Address Health Risks at the Human–Animal–Ecosystems Interfaces. 81 (World Health Organization, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the World Organisation for Animal Health, 2012.
