One Health: The Integrated Approach to Health Threats
CREMONA – “One Health,” also known as “one health,” is a concept in healthcare that emphasizes the interconnectedness of human health and the health of the ecosystem. The World Health Organization’s director general, Tedros Ghebreyesus, highlighted this relationship, stating that the pandemic has underscored the delicate balance between humans and the planet. The close connection between human, animal, and environmental health has become increasingly evident as populations grow, habitats change, and interactions between humans and animals increase.
Recognizing this interconnectedness, ATS Val Padana has established the One Health Functional Department to bring together experts from various fields, including doctors, veterinarians, and public health professionals. By breaking down the barriers between disciplines, the department aims to address health threats holistically and collaboratively.
In the fight against emerging infectious diseases, food-borne illnesses, and antimicrobial resistance, the integration of medical and veterinary services is crucial. For example, the surveillance of arboviruses in animals can help anticipate human cases and implement preventive measures. Veterinary services also play a key role in monitoring infectious animal diseases that pose a risk to humans, such as avian influenza.
In addition to infectious diseases, veterinary services also conduct routine checks for antimicrobial resistance in food-producing animals and environmental contaminants in food products. Monitoring the quality of the environment in which humans and animals coexist, such as testing for radioactivity in milk and meat samples, is essential for ensuring public health and safety.
Collaboration with other authorities, such as the Carabinieri and Port Authorities, further enhances the One Health approach. Joint interventions focus on various areas, including animal welfare, food safety, and product labeling. The collaboration between Veterinary Services and the Food Hygiene and Nutrition Service has been instrumental in investigating and managing food-borne illnesses affecting humans.
Overall, the One Health approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health and underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary and collaborative effort in addressing health threats. By working together across disciplines and sectors, healthcare professionals can better protect the health and well-being of both humans and animals.