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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What are the main challenges faced in implementing the One Health approach across different sectors?
**Interview with Dr. Brigitte Autran, President of Covars**
**Date:** November 15, 2024
**Time:** 14:30
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Autran. As an expert in immunology and the head of Covars, can you explain why the “One Health” approach is critical in today’s world?
**Dr. Autran:** Thank you for having me. The “One Health” approach underscores the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Our current health challenges cannot be solved in isolation; they are deeply interwoven with ecological factors. This perspective is especially relevant in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the vulnerabilities in our systems.
**Interviewer:** While the concept gained attention during the pandemic, it appears to be struggling to influence public policy. What do you believe is preventing its integration into mainstream health policies?
**Dr. Autran:** There are several barriers, including institutional silos in health sectors, lack of public awareness, and insufficient political will. Many stakeholders still view health issues through a narrow lens, focusing individually on human health or animal health without recognizing their links to ecological conditions. To move forward, we need concerted efforts to promote cross-sector collaboration and enhance public understanding of these interdependencies.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the importance of collaboration. How can different sectors work together more effectively under the One Health framework?
**Dr. Autran:** Effective collaboration requires structured communication channels between public health officials, veterinarians, and environmental scientists. We must establish integrated surveillance systems that monitor health trends across these sectors. Additionally, educating and training professionals from various backgrounds to understand this interconnectedness is vital.
**Interviewer:** What role does public awareness play in advocating for One Health?
**Dr. Autran:** Public awareness is crucial. When people understand how their environment affects their health—such as the risks of stagnant water contributing to malaria outbreaks—they’re more likely to support policies that promote One Health strategies. Campaigns, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives can bridge this gap, making the concept resonate on a personal level for individuals.
**Interviewer:** In your opinion, what specific actions should be prioritized by governmental bodies and health organizations to promote the One Health approach?
**Dr. Autran:** Governments and health organizations should prioritize funding for research that explores the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health. They should also implement policies that promote sustainable practices in agriculture and urban planning, invest in public health infrastructures, and create multidisciplinary teams capable of addressing health challenges holistically.
**Interviewer:** where do you see the “One Health” approach in the next decade?
**Dr. Autran:** I envision that the “One Health” approach will gain momentum as global health challenges continue to grow. With increased collaboration and public advocacy, I believe we can see meaningful changes in policy and practice that recognize the interrelationship between our health and the health of our environment. Ultimately, we will be better equipped to prevent and respond to future health crises.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Autran, for sharing your insights on this vital issue.
**Dr. Autran:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we continue to discuss and advance this approach for a healthier future for everyone.
