More than 70% of emerging infectious diseases originate in animals. In this context, examine the significance of the One Health approach in addressing zoonotic diseases, antimicrob

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More than 70% of emerging infectious diseases originate in animals. In this context, examine the significance of the One Health approach in addressing zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and climate-linked health risks in India.

Examine

  • 10 marks
  • 8 min
  • 150 words
  • Medium

The Hindu

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Introduction

With over 70% of emerging infectious diseases being zoonotic, fragmented sectoral responses are inadequate. The One Health approach—integrating human, animal, and environmental health—is critical for India’s complex risk landscape.

Significance in Addressing Zoonotic Diseases

  • Early Detection and Surveillance: Integrated monitoring across wildlife, livestock, and humans enables timely identification of outbreaks (e.g., Nipah, avian influenza).
  • Breaking Transmission Chains: Coordinated action on animal vaccination, biosecurity, and human health interventions reduces spillover risks.
  • Inter-sectoral Coordination: Aligns ministries (Health, Animal Husbandry, Environment) for unified response.

Role in Combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

  • Rational Antibiotic Use: Addresses misuse in both human healthcare and livestock sector.
  • Surveillance Systems: Tracks resistance patterns across sectors for informed policymaking.
  • Regulation of Veterinary Practices: Limits non-therapeutic antibiotic use in agriculture and aquaculture.

Addressing Climate-linked Health Risks

  • Ecosystem Monitoring: Tracks how climate change alters vector ecology and disease patterns (e.g., malaria, dengue expansion).
  • Disaster Preparedness: Integrates health planning with climate adaptation strategies.
  • Biodiversity Conservation: Reduces human-wildlife conflict and pathogen spillover.

Challenges in Implementation

  • Institutional Fragmentation: Weak coordination among multiple agencies and levels of government.
  • Data Silos: Lack of integrated databases and real-time information sharing.
  • Capacity Constraints: Shortage of trained workforce in veterinary and environmental health.
  • Funding and Governance Gaps: Limited dedicated resources and unclear accountability.

Way Forward

  • Operationalising One Health Framework: Strengthen India’s National One Health Mission with clear mandates.
  • Integrated Surveillance Platforms: Develop unified digital systems for cross-sector data sharing.
  • Capacity Building: Train professionals in interdisciplinary approaches.
  • Community Engagement: Promote awareness on hygiene, animal handling, and antibiotic use.
  • Global Collaboration: Align with WHO, FAO, and OIE frameworks.

Conclusion

The One Health approach offers a holistic and preventive pathway to tackle zoonoses, AMR, and climate-linked risks, making it indispensable for resilient public health systems in India.