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 specific barriers exist in implementing One Health initiatives within public health policies?
**Interview with Dr. Brigitte Autran, President of Covars on the One Health Initiative**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Autran. As we’ve seen, the One Health Initiative emphasizes the connection between human, animal, and ecosystem health. Why do you believe this concept is vital for modern public health policy?
**Dr. Autran:** Thank you for having me. The One Health approach is crucial because health does not exist in isolation. The COVID-19 pandemic illustrated how interconnected our health is with that of animals and the environment. For example, changes in land use, such as deforestation, can lead to the emergence of zoonotic diseases, which can impact human health significantly.
**Interviewer:** You’ve mentioned the lack of established public policies surrounding One Health. What are some of the barriers to its implementation?
**Dr. Autran:** One of the main challenges is the fragmented nature of health systems and policies. Often, human, animal, and environmental health are addressed in silos. There is also the issue of public awareness and acceptance of this interconnectedness. Many people still view health issues as separate rather than recognizing their shared roots.
**Interviewer:** Considering your role with Covars, what specific actions do you believe could help advance the One Health Initiative within public policy?
**Dr. Autran:** We need to promote interdisciplinary collaboration among various sectors—health, agriculture, environment, and wildlife. Additionally, increasing funding for integrated health programs and research into the interconnections among these fields is essential. Moreover, enhancing public education about these connections can foster greater acceptance and support for One Health initiatives.
**Interviewer:** With environmental changes, such as urbanization and climate change, influencing health risks, how do you see the role of policymakers evolving in the next few years?
**Dr. Autran:** Policymakers must adopt a more holistic view of health and recognize that environmental sustainability is integral to preventing health crises. Moving forward, we need comprehensive policies that not only address immediate health concerns but also focus on long-term environmental stewardship and biodiversity preservation.
**Interviewer:** how can individuals contribute to the One Health approach in their daily lives?
**Dr. Autran:** Individuals can play an important role by being mindful of their environmental impact—supporting sustainable practices, minimizing waste, and advocating for policies that protect the environment. Simple actions, like reducing antibiotic use in agriculture and being conscious of how wildlife ecosystems are affected by our actions, can collectively make a difference.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Autran, for sharing your insights on the importance of the One Health Initiative. Your work at Covars is certainly contributing to a greater understanding of this interconnected approach to health.
**Dr. Autran:** Thank you! It’s crucial that we keep this conversation going, as One Health is not just a framework; it’s essential for our survival and well-being.