2024-11-15 14:30:00
The doctor specializing in immunology Brigitte Autran, president of Covars, in 2022. VINCENT COLIN
For ten years, the United Nations (UN), through the World Health Organization (WHO), has been trying to impose the concept of “One Health”. This notion highlights the interdependence of human, animal and ecosystem health. Fleetingly popularized during the Covid-19 epidemic, it is struggling to establish itself in public policies and public opinion. However, all it takes is stagnant water – ideal for mosquitoes – and a malaria epidemic can develop.
Deforestation, strong urbanization, and disturbed bats can contaminate mammals. Overuse of antibiotics and resistant viruses are emerging. Environment, health and society are closely linked. How can we advance the idea of “One Health”? Brigitte Autran heads Covars, an independent scientific committee created at the end of the health emergency law, in support of the Minister of Health and Research and the Prime Minister, to help them anticipate health risks .
How did the notion of One Health emerge?
Covid has highlighted the fact that 75% to 80% of emerging infections in humans are of animal origin. To better anticipate this risk, it is necessary to have a joint and parallel analysis of the pathologies likely to emerge from the animal world and be transmitted to humans. Covid-19 was an illustration of this, since we know that the virus emerged in bats. The government therefore considered that it was very important to include this concept of “One Health” in the Covars missions.
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The first interactions between man and animals are extremely old, and we have always known in the history of diseases that major epidemics often originate in the animal world. For example, plague epidemics as we have known them since Antiquity. This reality was highlighted at the beginning of the 21st century with several major epidemics such as SARS. [syndrome respiratoire aigu sévère]in 2002-2004, MERS-CoV [coronavirus du syndrome respiratoire du Moyen-Orient]in 2012, pandemic episodes of influenza originating from birds or the animal world… This concept of One Health was gradually highlighted.
Has the Covid-19 crisis accelerated the consideration of these interactions?
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How can collaboration between different sectors enhance the effectiveness of the One Health Initiative?
**Interview with Dr. Brigitte Autran on Advancing the One Health Initiative**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Autran. As the president of Covars and a specialist in immunology, you are at the forefront of public health discussions. Can you start by explaining the concept of One Health and why it has become increasingly relevant in our society?
**Dr. Brigitte Autran:** Thank you for having me. One Health is an integrated approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and ecosystem health. This concept has gained attention, especially in light of recent global health challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s crucial because the degradation of ecosystems, environmental changes, and the health of our animal populations directly impact human health. For instance, stagnant water could lead to mosquito breeding and the potential for malaria outbreaks, as we’ve seen in recent years.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the challenges in establishing One Health within public policy. What do you see as the main barriers, and how can we overcome them?
**Dr. Autran:** One of the primary barriers is the fragmented nature of health policies across human, animal, and environmental sectors. Often, these areas operate in silos, which limits our ability to respond to health threats that arise from the interplay of these domains. To overcome this, we need to foster collaboration among governments, health organizations, and communities. This can be achieved through education and awareness campaigns that highlight how our actions impact the health of ecosystems and, in turn, our health.
**Interviewer:** What role can individuals and communities play in advancing the One Health agenda?
**Dr. Autran:** Individuals can play a significant role by being more aware of their environmental impact and advocating for sustainable practices. Communities can engage in local conservation efforts, support responsible farming techniques, and practice proper waste management. Public participation in health education programs can also help bridge the gap between these interconnected areas and promote a culture of health that collectively prioritizes human, animal, and ecological well-being.
**Interviewer:** As we look to the future, what initiatives or changes do you believe are necessary to effectively implement the One Health approach?
**Dr. Autran:** We need robust interdisciplinary frameworks that allow for ongoing collaboration between health sectors, environmental scientists, wildlife experts, and policymakers. Additionally, integrating One Health principles into educational programs will prepare future generations to think holistically about health issues. Governments should also prioritize funding for research and initiatives that address the complexities of health as interconnected systems rather than isolated problems.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Dr. Autran. It’s clear that the path forward for One Health requires coordinated efforts at all levels of society.
**Dr. Brigitte Autran:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic. Awareness and action are key to ensuring a healthier future for all.