ISLAMABAD, Sept 19 (Alliance News): COMSTECH hosted a webinar titled “A One Health Approach to Zoonotic Outbreaks” on Thursday, highlighting the importance of a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach to prevent and manage zoonotic diseases.
Dr. Tariq Mahmood Ali, Dean of Social Sciences at the Health Services Academy (HSA), led the session.
Dr. Tariq’s presentation focused on the “One Health” framework, which addresses the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
This approach is vital for tackling zoonotic outbreaks—diseases that transfer from animals to humans, such as rabies, SARS, and COVID-19.
He discussed the increased human-animal interaction and its potential to lead to significant health crises. Dr. Tariq outlined the four phases of outbreak response: preparedness, alert, response, and recovery, emphasizing the need for collaboration across different health sectors.
The webinar also highlighted the crucial role of veterinary services in managing zoonotic diseases from livestock, companion animals, and wildlife.
Challenges like antimicrobial resistance and global trade were examined, along with the necessity for integrated action across human, environmental, and animal health sectors.
Dr. Tariq called for continued coordination and integration among public and private health services to improve preparedness, early detection, and response to outbreaks.
With over 50 participants from various OIC member states, the webinar underscored the collective commitment to advancing the One Health approach.
