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 interdisciplinary collaboration enhance the effectiveness of the ”One Health” approach?
**Interview with Brigitte Autran on the “One Health” Concept**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Autran. The concept of “One Health” has gained attention, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Can you explain what “One Health” encompasses?
**Brigitte Autran:** Thank you for having me. “One Health” is an integrated approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and ecosystem health. It emphasizes that to effectively address health challenges—whether they stem from zoonotic diseases, antibiotic resistance, or environmental degradation—we must consider the health of all living beings and their environments holistically.
**Interviewer:** Despite its importance, why do you think the “One Health” concept has struggled to gain traction in public policy?
**Brigitte Autran:** This is a crucial question. The “One Health” approach requires a paradigm shift in how we traditionally think about health. Many sectors—such as public health, veterinary health, and environmental policies—often operate in silos. This fragmentation makes it challenging to implement integrated strategies. Moreover, public awareness is still relatively low, which hampers the push for policy changes.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that human, animal, and ecosystem health are interdependent. Can you provide an example that illustrates this connection?
**Brigitte Autran:** Certainly. Take the rise of malaria due to stagnant water, which creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes. If we ignore environmental factors, we might see a resurgence of diseases we thought were under control. Similarly, deforestation can lead to increased contact between wildlife and human populations, heightening the risk of zoonotic diseases—diseases that can jump from animals to humans, such as zoonotic coronaviruses.
**Interviewer:** What steps can be taken to advance the “One Health” approach in public policy and public consciousness?
**Brigitte Autran:** Advocacy and education are key. We need to raise awareness about the “One Health” concept among policymakers and the general public. Collaborative efforts across sectors—like joint workshops or training sessions—can help break down silos. Establishing interdisciplinary task forces that involve health professionals, environmentalists, and agricultural experts can also promote a holistic approach to health issues.
**Interviewer:** As the president of Covars, what role do you see your committee playing in promoting “One Health”?
**Brigitte Autran:** Covars aims to support the government in anticipating health risks and integrating health considerations across sectors. We work to provide scientific evidence and recommendations that can help shape policies that embrace the ”One Health” approach. Our goal is to create a framework where health, environment, and society are viewed as a unified whole.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Autran. It’s clear that embracing “One Health” is vital for our future resilience against health crises.
**Brigitte Autran:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic. Together, we can make significant strides toward a healthier, more sustainable world.