One Health approach for healthier world

The world observed World One Health Day on 3 November, which marks the recognition of the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health.

- DR AMARENDER REDDY

The One Health approach emphasizes that these three domains are deeply interwoven and that threats to one often affect all. Now more than ever, doctors, veterinarians, crop protection scientists, ecologists and policymakers need to collaborate closely to prevent global health crises, reduce the spread of disease and preserve biodiversity.

WHY ONE HEALTH MATTERS

One Health promotes cross-disciplinary collaboration to address complex, interlinked health threats that cross species boundaries. The Covid-19 pandemic brought these connections into sharp focus, highlighting how human health and economic stability are vulnerable to zoonotic diseases—those originating in animals. According to the World Bank, Covid-19 has cost the global economy more than $16 trillion, factoring in healthcare expenses, lost productivity and disruptions to economic systems. These figures underscore the urgency for coordinated efforts to detect and prevent similar threats before they escalate into global crises.

PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF ZOONOTIC DISEASES