Strengthening a One Health approach to emerging zoonoses

Abstract

Given the enormous global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Canada, and manifold other zoonotic pathogen activity, there is a pressing need for a deeper understanding of the human-animal-environment interface and the intersecting biological, ecological, and societal factors contributing to the emergence, spread, and impact of zoonotic diseases. We aim to apply a One Health approach to pressing issues related to emerging zoonoses, and propose a functional framework of interconnected but distinct groups of recommendations around strategy and governance, technical leadership (operations), equity, education and research for a One Health approach and Action Plan for Canada. Change is desperately needed, beginning by reorienting our approach to health and recalibrating our perspectives to restore balance with the natural world in a rapid and sustainable fashion. In Canada, a major paradigm shift in how we think about health is required. All of society must recognize the intrinsic value of all living species and the importance of the health of humans, other animals, and ecosystems to health for all.

Global Mapping and Visualization Analysis of One Health Knowledge in the COVID-19 Context

“…To improve governance of One Health, it is crucial to prioritize significant efforts in addressing the social-ecological factors that contribute to health emergencies, such as emerging, re-emerging, and endemic infectious diseases. 96 These factors encompass climate change, biodiversity loss, and land-use change, emphasizing the need for effective and enforceable legislation, investment, capacity building, and collaboration with professionals from various sectors beyond the health domain. 14 , 96 Facilitating the development of localized communities that adapt One Health to unique contexts is crucial for successful governance.…”

“… 96 These factors encompass climate change, biodiversity loss, and land-use change, emphasizing the need for effective and enforceable legislation, investment, capacity building, and collaboration with professionals from various sectors beyond the health domain. 14 , 96 Facilitating the development of localized communities that adapt One Health to unique contexts is crucial for successful governance. 97 These interconnected communities contribute to global efforts by emphasizing links and building social capital.…”

Preparing for future outbreaks in Ghana: An overview of current COVID-19, monkeypox, and Marburg disease outbreaks

“…The combined efforts of the GHS and the support from the WHO helped to strengthen Ghana's response capabilities, mitigate the effect of the Marburg virus, and protecting the health and well-being of the population. 47,48 Lessons from COVID-19, monkeypox virus and MVD in Ghana for future outbreaks Lessons from the recent outbreaks provide valuable insights into the management of outbreak infectious diseases in the future. These outbreaks, especially COVID-19 have resulted in significant human mortality, associated morbidities, and strain on sociocultural and healthcare systems, as containment measures require substantial resources, including financial support, laboratory testing equipment and reagents, and skilled healthcare personnel.…”

“…The combined efforts of the GHS and the support from the WHO helped to strengthen Ghana’s response capabilities, mitigate the effect of the Marburg virus, and protecting the health and well-being of the population. 47 , 48 …”

The continuum of care as a unifying framework for intergenerational and interspecies health equity

“…The growing spectrum of approaches can make it hard for people to determine where and how they can best contribute. Competition between approaches can obfuscate the critical guiding principle that society needs to recognize the intrinsic value of all living species for the health of humans, other animals, and ecosystems alike ( 4 ).…”