As a veterinarian, I have witnessed firsthand the intricate connections between animal health, human health, and our shared environment. This interconnectedness forms the basis of the One Health approach – a collaborative, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary approach to achieving optimal health outcomes.
Nepal, with its diverse ecosystems and close-knit communities of humans and animals, is a prime candidate for the implementation of the One Health approach. The country’s unique geographical features, ranging from the lowland Terai to the high-altitude Himalayas, host a variety of wildlife species and domesticated animals living near human settlements. This cohabitation, while culturally and ecologically significant, also presents challenges in terms of disease transmission and environmental sustainability.
Critical need for One Health approach
Scientists estimate that more than six out of every 10 known infectious diseases in people can be spread from animals, and three out of every four new or emerging infectious diseases in people come from animals. In fact, some 60 per cent of emerging infectious diseases that are reported globally come from animals, both wild and domestic. This data underscores the critical need for a One Health approach in Nepal.
Zoonotic diseases, those transmitted from animals to humans, pose a significant public health threat in Nepal. Rabies is a prime example of a zoonotic disease that can be better managed through the One Health approach. In Nepal, it is estimated that rabies kills around 500 animals and up to 32 human beings annually. As a prophylactic measure, around 30,000 livestock and 300,000 humans get vaccinated each year in Nepal. However, it is believed that the actual number of rabies cases is under-reported.
The World Health Organization (WHO) aims to bring human deaths from dog-transmitted rabies to zero by 2030, a goal often referred to as ‘Zero by 30’. To achieve this goal, the concerned governmental and non-governmental agencies in Nepal should work together using the One Health concept.
Similarly, Avian influenza and leptospirosis are just a few examples of zoonotic diseases prevalent in the country. By adopting the One Health approach, we can enhance disease surveillance and response, improve public health, and safeguard the well-being of our animals.
Environmental changes, largely driven by human activity, further complicate these health challenges. Deforestation, climate change, and pollution can exacerbate disease transmission and present new public health challenges. The One Health approach recognises these environmental factors and promotes sustainable practices to mitigate their impact.
Implementing the One Health approach in Nepal requires collaboration across various sectors, including public health, veterinary medicine, environmental science, and policy-making. The cornerstone of One Health in Nepal lies in empowering communities with knowledge. Educational campaigns can raise awareness about zoonotic diseases, those transmissible between animals and humans.
Educating the public about responsible pet ownership, proper hygiene practices, and the importance of sanitation fosters behaviour change that directly impacts disease prevention. By understanding the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, communities become active participants in safeguarding their well-being.
Healthcare management
Vaccination programs are the bedrock of preventive healthcare for both humans and animals. Expanding access to vaccinations and ensuring high coverage rates creates a crucial barrier against outbreaks. Investing in animal vaccination programs, such as those targeting rabies or brucellosis, not only protects animal health but also safeguards public health by preventing the transmission of zoonotic diseases.
Similarly, effective waste management systems are critical for a One Health approach. Improper waste disposal creates breeding grounds for rodents and insects, acting as vectors for disease transmission. Implementing efficient waste collection, processing, and disposal systems not only improves overall sanitation but also plays a vital role in disrupting the transmission chain of many diseases. Additionally, promoting responsible waste management practices within communities, such as composting and proper disposal of hazardous materials, further contributes to a healthier environment.
One Health recognises the environment as a crucial player in the health equation. Promoting sustainable practices such as eco-friendly tourism, biodiversity conservation, and responsible waste management helps mitigate environmental damage. A healthy environment fosters healthy ecosystems that harbour fewer disease-causing pathogens. Furthermore, sustainable development practices ensure the long-term health of the environment, which in turn contributes to the health and well-being of both humans and animals.
For the One Health approach to achieve long-term success, strong policy frameworks are necessary. Advocacy efforts should focus on policies that support One Health initiatives. This includes policies that improve access to veterinary services for improved animal health.
Strengthening environmental regulations, such as those related to deforestation or water quality, is vital for maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Finally, promoting investments in sustainable development projects helps ensure a future where human, animal, and environmental health are prioritised holistically.
One Health approach in Nepal
In Nepal, the One Health approach is gaining momentum as a vital strategy to address the complex interplay between human, animal, and environmental health. The government of Nepal has recognised the importance of this integrated approach, particularly in tackling issues such as antimicrobial resistance, highly pathogenic avian influenza, and rabies. Despite its infancy, the One Health concept is growing, with several initiatives already underway.
The government has implemented activities guided by the One Health Strategy, which underscores the need for a collaborative effort across various sectors, including public health, veterinary services, wildlife conservation, and environmental agencies. The aim is to create a unified response to health threats that transcend traditional boundaries.
However, the implementation of One Health policies in Nepal faces several challenges. These include a lack of organisational structure to support One Health, the absence of a legal framework, insufficient coordination among governmental agencies, limited technical expertise, and inadequate data-sharing mechanisms. Moreover, there is a need for increased awareness among policymakers and political leaders, as well as a regular government budget for One Health activities.
To overcome these obstacles, the government is encouraged to prioritise health problems where the One Health approach would yield the best outcomes. Establishing institutional and legal frameworks, increasing awareness, and allocating regular government budgets are crucial steps towards promoting One Health in Nepal. By addressing these gaps, Nepal can effectively harness the One Health approach to improve the health and well-being of its people, animals, and the environment.
This comprehensive approach, if fully embraced and implemented, has the potential to transform Nepal’s health landscape, making it a model for One Health implementation in resource-limited settings. The success of One Health in Nepal will depend on the commitment and collaboration of all stakeholders involved in this multifaceted endeavour.
As a veterinarian and a citizen of Nepal, I am committed to the One Health cause. It is a call to action for all of us—health professionals, policymakers, environmentalists, and community members to work together for a healthier, more sustainable future. By embracing the One Health approach, we can ensure that the health of one is the health of all.
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