Greater cooperation across sectors is needed to protect the health of all from the impacts of zoonotic diseases, as strongly reminded by recent emerging diseases of animal origin. New operational tools are available to support countries in achieving this One Health collaboration in the field.

12 September 2022 (Geneva, Paris, Rome) – For years, our lives and societies have been plagued with zoonotic diseases such as Ebola, influenza and COVID-19, which are transmitted between animals and humans. It has been affected by several diseases, also known as These diseases pose problems for our global health systems, food supply chains and economies.

Although the extent of zoonotic impacts can vary to varying degrees, many countries have demonstrated inadequate mechanisms to ensure long-term and sustainable One Health cooperation. it was done. To assist countries in filling these gaps, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Health Organization (WHO), and World Animal Health Organization (WOAH) are working together to facilitate the establishment of multisectoral coordination mechanisms. Developed a new operational tool. , and of surveillance and information sharing systems.

Leadership and technical capabilities to address zoonotic diseases must be coordinated across all relevant sectors. For example, in Qatar, the MERS-CoV outbreak has led to increased multisectoral coordination at the national level, followed by an expanded operating area in the control of other zoonotic diseases. The Multisectoral Coordination Mechanisms (MCM OT) operational tool references the principles and best practices described in the Tripartite Zoonoses Guide to establish or strengthen One Health coordination mechanisms for countries to manage zoonotic diseases. provides a standard step-by-step approach to

As zoonotic diseases can be transmitted between humans and animals, including vectors, or through the environment, coordinated surveillance must address all routes. The Surveillance and Information Sharing Operational Tool (SIS OT) assists national authorities in their efforts to establish or strengthen One Health multi-sectoral coordinated SIS systems for zoonotic diseases. Such systems are essential for early detection of disease events. Sharing timely information can reduce the risk of animal-to-human transmission.

The impact of emerging diseases goes far beyond the public and animal health sectors, and nearly every sector is adversely affected. Therefore, multiple sectors and disciplines need to work together to meet these hygiene challenges. This applies to coordination mechanisms, surveillance and other aspects of national health systems.

As the world begins to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, operational tools will help countries improve joint responses to zoonotic diseases and other health risks at the human-animal-environment interface. .