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 advancing the One Health initiative in their everyday lives?
**Interview with Dr. Brigitte Autran on One Health Approach**
**Date: November 15, 2024**
**Location: [Your News Studio]**
**Interviewer:** Good afternoon, Dr. Autran. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the One Health initiative. It’s a concept that has gained some visibility recently, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Can you explain the essence of One Health and why it’s crucial in today’s context?
**Dr. Brigitte Autran:** Thank you for having me. One Health is indeed an integrated approach that recognizes the interdependence of human, animal, and ecosystem health. In our increasingly interconnected world, issues like deforestation, urbanization, and the overuse of antibiotics are significant. These factors can disrupt ecosystems and contribute to the emergence of diseases that affect both humans and animals. It’s crucial that we understand these links to prevent future health crises.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the emergence of diseases as a result of these disruptions. Could you shed light on specific examples of how this interdependence manifests in real-life scenarios?
**Dr. Autran:** Certainly. Take the example of stagnant water, which can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes, potentially leading to malaria epidemics. Additionally, the disruption of bat habitats can lead to increased contact between wildlife and human populations, fostering the spillover of zoonotic diseases—those transmitted from animals to humans. The link between environmental health and our own can’t be overstated.
**Interviewer:** With One Health being such a critical framework, why do you think it’s struggling to fully integrate into public policies and opinion?
**Dr. Autran:** There are multiple challenges. Firstly, public awareness about the interconnectedness of health issues is still developing. Many people view human health, animal health, and environmental health as separate domains. Additionally, policy-making often operates in silos, which can hinder collaborative approaches. To advance One Health, we need educational initiatives, policy reforms, and intersectoral collaborations that convey the message that these areas are not isolated but deeply intertwined.
**Interviewer:** What steps can be taken to promote the One Health approach more effectively?
**Dr. Autran:** We must engage various stakeholders—government entities, NGOs, and the public—in dialogue about the importance of One Health. This includes scientific research, public health messaging, and incorporating One Health principles into education at all levels. Furthermore, we need policies that encompass all facets of health, promoting sustainable practices that protect our ecosystems, alongside enhancing human and animal health.
**Interviewer:** what role can individuals play in advancing the One Health initiative in their daily lives?
**Dr. Autran:** Individuals can make a significant impact by advocating for environmentally friendly practices, supporting wildlife conservation, and being responsible in their use of antibiotics. Awareness is key—understanding how our actions affect not just our health, but also the health of animals and ecosystems can drive change. Every small action contributes to the larger goal of a healthier planet.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Autran, for your insights on the One Health framework. It’s vital for everyone to recognize our part in this interconnected system.
**Dr. Autran:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we continue this conversation and work together toward a sustainable future.
**Interviewer:** And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Let’s all consider how we can contribute to a healthier world through the One Health perspective.
