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 individuals contribute to the One Health initiative in their communities?
**Interview on One Health with Dr. Brigitte Autran**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Autran. As the president of Covars and a specialist in immunology, you have a unique perspective on public health. Can you explain what the concept of “One Health” really encompasses?
**Dr. Brigitte Autran:** Thank you for having me. “One Health” is an integrative approach that recognizes the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health. It emphasizes that our health is linked not only to other humans but also to the health of animals and the ecosystems we inhabit. This interconnectedness means that addressing health issues in one area can have profound implications for the others.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the link between health and ecosystems. How does this relationship manifest in real-world situations, especially concerning emerging diseases like malaria?
**Dr. Brigitte Autran:** Indeed, the connection is very tangible. For example, stagnant water creates prime breeding conditions for mosquitoes, which can lead to a resurgence in diseases like malaria. Additionally, activities such as deforestation and urbanization disturb wildlife habitats and can result in animals, including bats, coming into closer contact with humans. This proximity can facilitate the transmission of zoonotic diseases. Our approach must consider these environmental factors to effectively manage and prevent health crises.
**Interviewer:** The concept of “One Health” gained attention during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it seems to be struggling to gain traction in public policy. What do you think are the main challenges in promoting this approach?
**Dr. Brigitte Autran:** One of the significant challenges is the siloed nature of health policies. Often, human, animal, and environmental health initiatives are managed in isolation, which hinders a comprehensive response to health threats. Additionally, there’s a need for greater public awareness and understanding of how intertwined our health is with the health of ecosystems and animal populations. Bridging these gaps requires collaboration across multiple sectors, including government, healthcare, and environmental organizations.
**Interviewer:** What steps can be taken to advance the One Health concept within public policy and public opinion?
**Dr. Brigitte Autran:** Education and advocacy are crucial. We must promote the idea that health is not just a medical issue but a multifaceted one that encompasses various sectors. This can be achieved through public campaigns and integration of One Health principles in education systems. Additionally, policymakers should be encouraged to adopt a multi-sectoral approach in planning and responding to health threats. Collaborative research initiatives that focus on the interconnectedness of these domains will also be vital in advancing One Health.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Autran. It’s clear that embracing a One Health approach is essential for our collective well-being.
**Dr. Brigitte Autran:** Thank you. It’s vital that we keep this conversation going and work together to address these pressing health challenges.