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.
Read also | Article reserved for our subscribers Coronavirus: what major epidemics say about our way of inhabiting the world
Read later
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?
You have 57.23% of this article left to read. The rest is reserved for subscribers.
1731720857
#major #epidemics #originate #animal #world
What role does the “One Health” approach play in addressing global health challenges like pandemics and antibiotic resistance?
**Interview with Dr. Brigitte Autran on the One Health Approach**
*Date: November 15, 2024*
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Autran. As the president of Covars, you are at the forefront of discussions surrounding health risks. Can you explain the concept of “One Health” and its significance in today’s world?
**Dr. Brigitte Autran**: Thank you for having me. The “One Health” concept is crucial as it underscores the interconnectedness of human, animal, and ecosystem health. It’s a holistic approach that recognizes how environmental changes—like deforestation, urbanization, and climate variations—can directly impact human health. For instance, stagnant water can lead to mosquito breeding, resulting in malaria spikes. As we saw during the Covid-19 pandemic, these interdependencies cannot be overlooked.
**Interviewer**: While “One Health” gained some recognition during the pandemic, it seems to be struggling for prominence in public policy and opinion. Why do you think that’s the case?
**Dr. Autran**: Absolutely, the pandemic highlighted these connections, but shifting public policy takes time and persistent advocacy. One challenge is the complexity of translating the integrative nature of “One Health” into actionable policies—this often involves multiple sectors and disciplines, which can lead to bureaucratic hurdles. Additionally, public awareness remains limited. Much work is required to educate people on how environmental degradation and health are intertwined.
**Interviewer**: What are some steps we can take to advance the “One Health” agenda in health policy and community practices?
**Dr. Autran**: First, we need to foster collaboration between sectors—health, agriculture, and environmental sciences. Training programs for professionals across these areas can help create a shared understanding. Public health campaigns that highlight local examples of these connections can also raise awareness. Furthermore, supporting research that examines the links between environment and health is key. We must approach public policy with a One Health lens, integrating perspectives that account for human, animal, and environmental considerations.
**Interviewer**: Given the rising concerns over antibiotic resistance and emerging zoonotic diseases, how does “One Health” address these issues?
**Dr. Autran**: “One Health” presents an excellent framework for tackling these challenges. For antibiotic resistance, it encourages the prudent use of antibiotics in both human and veterinary medicine, while also addressing environmental factors that contribute to resistance development. Zoonotic diseases highlight the reality that pathogens can jump between species. By monitoring animal health and ecosystems alongside human health, we can catch potential outbreaks earlier and implement preventive measures.
**Interviewer**: Lastly, what advice would you give to individuals advocating for “One Health” in their communities?
**Dr. Autran**: My advice would be to start local. Engage with community leaders about the local health and environmental issues that connect to “One Health.” Encourage discussions about these links, promote educational initiatives, and advocate for local policies that reflect this interconnected approach. Remember, change starts at the grassroots level, and every small effort counts towards a broader understanding and implementation of “One Health.”
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Dr. Autran, for your insights on such a crucial topic. It’s evident that advancing the “One Health” approach requires collective action and dedication.
**Dr. Autran**: Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this important issue.
