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 community engagement enhance the effectiveness of the “One Health” framework in addressing global health issues?
**Interview with Dr. Brigitte Autran, President of Covars**
**Date:** November 15, 2024
**Location:** Online
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Autran. As the president of Covars, what is your perspective on the concept of “One Health” and its relevance today?
**Dr. Brigitte Autran:** Thank you for having me. The “One Health” approach is crucial, especially in light of recent global health challenges. It emphasizes that human, animal, and ecosystem health are interconnected. We cannot effectively address health issues in isolation; we need a holistic approach that recognizes these intricated relationships.
**Interviewer:** While the concept gained attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, why do you think it hasn’t yet fully taken root in public policies or public opinion?
**Dr. Autran:** That’s a great question. I believe part of the challenge is the complexity of the ”One Health” approach. It’s multifaceted and can seem overwhelming to integrate across various sectors, from health to environment and agriculture. Moreover, immediate health crises often overshadow long-term, systemic approaches. Policymakers need to recognize that neglecting any aspect of this triad can have dire consequences.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the interdependence of the environment and health. Can you elaborate on this?
**Dr. Autran:** Certainly. Environmental factors play a critical role in disease emergence. For example, deforestation and urbanization can disrupt habitats and lead to increased human-wildlife interactions, potentially introducing new pathogens. Moreover, antibiotic overuse creates resistant strains of bacteria and viruses, which complicates our ability to treat infections. We need to adopt sustainable practices that protect ecosystems, as a healthy environment directly translates to better health outcomes.
**Interviewer:** What steps can we take to promote the “One Health” approach more effectively?
**Dr. Autran:** Education and awareness are key. We need to engage communities, governments, and health professionals in understanding the importance of this approach. Strengthening collaboration among sectors—health, agriculture, and environment—can facilitate knowledge exchange and coordinated action. Policies should reflect the interconnectedness of these fields, investing in the health of ecosystems as a way to safeguard public health.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, how can organizations like Covars contribute to advancing the “One Health” agenda?
**Dr. Autran:** Covars plays a pivotal role by providing evidence-based recommendations to the government and stakeholders. By conducting research and bringing together experts from various fields, we aim to bridge gaps and promote integrated health strategies. We must also actively participate in discussions and initiatives that raise awareness and drive policy changes that support the ”One Health” framework.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Autran, for your insights. It’s clear that the “One Health” approach is more important than ever to safeguard our collective future.
**Dr. Autran:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic. It’s essential we continue these conversations and take action.
