One health outlook最新文献

Background: The Gram-negative enteric bacterium Shigella dysenteriae serotype 1 (Sd1) has historically caused several dysentery epidemics but has largely disappeared from the global epidemiological landscape, with the last reported isolate dating back to 2010. In this study, we have recently identified Sd1 from lamb meat in India in 2022, the first detection since 2010 and compared its genetic characteristics with the two clinical Sd1 isolates that were identified in Kolkata in 2010 and other global genomic sequences collected between 1951 and 2011.

Methodology: As part of the National ICMR-FoodNet surveillance, this study isolated S. dysenteriae serotype 1 from lamb meat in Sikkim (2022; SKM-823) and compared it with two clinical isolates from Kolkata (2010). Characterization involved biochemical and serological tests, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and whole genome sequencing. SNP-based phylogenetic analysis, MLST, ARGs, and toxin gene detection were conducted for the study isolates against 331 global Sd1 genomes.

Results: Comparative analysis of Sd1 (SKM-823) with two clinical isolates (IDH-3116 and IDH-3161) exhibited resistance to quinolones, fluroquinolones, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, but were susceptible to azithromycin and cephalosporins. The two clinical Sd1 isolates were resistant to azithromycin. Multi locus sequence typing identified that the clinical isolates belonging to ST5159 and SKM-823 as ST146. Both these STs are mostly represented by the other Asian Sd1 isolates. Several antimicrobial resistance encoding genes (ARGs) have been identified in the Shigella resistance locus-pathogenicity island. Four key toxin genes such as the Shiga toxins-stx1A, stx1B; enteroaggregative heat-stable toxin-astA; and invasion plasmid associated-antigen-ipaH were also identified in SKM-823, IDH-3116 and IDH-3161. The phylogenetic analysis showed clustering of SKM-823 Sd1 isolate and the other clinical isolates (IDH-3116 and IDH-3161) from India within lineage IV, consistent with the other Asian isolates.

Conclusion: This study finding reveals genomic changes and rising AMR in Sd1, underscoring its potential epidemic implications and the need to strengthen systematic surveillance. With the increasing reports on the incidence of Shigella spp from animals, foods of animal origin and food handlers, Sd1 is becoming a significant concern within the global one health framework. The identification of an epidemic causing S. dysenteriae Type 1 calls for timely action from health authorities to implement targeted interventions and ensure updated medical and policy responses remain updated and responsive.

Background: Europe and Africa are increasingly affected by (re-)emerging risk group 3 and 4, zoonotic viral disease epidemics, which not only require diagnostic BSL-3/4 laboratory capacity but also a One Health-based control strategy for efficient outbreak containment. In many European and African countries such laboratory capacity is often not readily available, and rapid response mobile laboratories (RRMLs) can play important, complementary roles in outbreak responses and pandemic preparedness activities on national, regional and international level.

Main body: The aim of the present review was to assess whether existing European and African RRML infrastructure is prepared for future One Health outbreak responses and to identify potential diagnostic gaps. Based on a literature review (2007-2021), we identified 291 mobile laboratories (Europe: 192, Africa: 99) and assessed them in respect to purpose (e.g. military, civilian), design (suitcase, modular, vehicle mounted), biosafety level, laboratory equipment, diagnostic portfolio, sample types analyzed (human, animal) and quality assurance measures. Following peaks in 2014 (Ebola/West Africa) and 2020 (COVID-19), mobile laboratory numbers have steadily increased. Whilst laboratories were originally designed to diagnose viral haemorrhagic fevers, there has been an increased focus on SARS-CoV-2 since 2020. Recently, there was a shift of African countries to develop an independent mobile laboratory capacity, rather than relying on external support for outbreak responses.

Conclusion: We identified key shortcomings of existing laboratories, as the majority only process samples of human origin (not compliant with One Health principles), only 5% have sufficient capacity to diagnose emerging risk group 3/4 (arbo)viruses, 1-10% have accredited quality assurance systems in place, and mobile laboratories are not interconnected to allow concerted national and international responses. Our results reveal the gaps that should be addressed to make future responses to zoonotic, high-consequence pathogens more effective.

Background: Wildlife farming and trade in Southeast Asia contribute to the growing threat of zoonotic diseases. Despite the diversity of species farmed and the varying levels of risk they may pose, biosecurity practices among wildlife farmers remain underexplored. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of wildlife farmers in Vietnam to inform targeted interventions for zoonotic risk reduction.

Method: A mixed-methods study was conducted among 210 wildlife farmers who raised bats, bamboo rats, civets, and wild boars in Lao Cai and Dong Nai provinces, Vietnam, between October 2023 and March 2024. Quantitative data were collected via structured questionnaires, and qualitative insights were obtained through 30 key informant interviews and two focus group discussions. Linear mixed-effects regression and thematic analysis were applied to explore KAP scores and associated factors.

Results: Wildlife farmers demonstrated relatively high knowledge (mean score: 10.1/13, 77.7%), positive attitudes (mean score: 41.3/50, 82.6%), and moderate preventive practices (mean score: 14.1/30, 47.0%). Farmers with college or above education had higher knowledge scores (Estimated marginal mean (EMM) = 11.8; 95% confidence interval (CI): 10.2-12.8) compared to those with no formal education (EMM = 7.8; 95% CI: 4.0-11.1). Farmers solely engaged in wildlife farming had lower attitude scores (EMM = 41.7; 95% CI: 37.8-45.0) than farmers who also worked as government employees (EMM = 46.1; 95% CI: 43.3-48.2). Farming bats (EMM = 8.5; 95% CI: 5.8-11.4) had lower practice scores compared to farming civets (EMM = 15.8; 95% CI: 13.0-18.6), and farmers consumed wild meat had lower practice score (EMM = 12.3; 95% CI: 9.5-15.2) than those did not (EMM = 14.5; 95% CI: 11.9-17.0). Qualitative findings revealed that many farmers normalised risky practices, prioritised convenience and personal experience over disease knowledge, and avoided reporting illnesses due to mistrust in veterinary authorities and fear of negative consequences.

Conclusion: This study highlights low risk perception and gaps between knowledge and practices among wildlife farmers, underscoring the urgent need for One Health interventions that promote low-cost preventive measures, build trust with authorities, and deliver targeted health education for reducing zoonotic risks.

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health challenge driven by the misuse of antimicrobials across humans, animals, and the environment, necessitating integrated One Health solutions.

Objective: This scoping review aims to synthesise evidence on the opportunities and challenges of leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle AMR within the One Health framework.

Methods: This review adhered to the PRISMA-ScR guideline. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, along with citation searching and Google Scholar.

Results: A total of 543 studies were identified from these databases. After removing duplicates, 343 studies remained for screening. Following the title and abstract screening, 273 publications were selected for full-text review, and 43 studies were included in the final analysis. Studies written in English that explored the application of AI tools and techniques for AMR in any One Health domain were included. The review found that AI is widely applied to combat AMR across different sectors (human, animal, and environmental health), with key opportunities including the rapid identification of resistant pathogens, AI-powered surveillance and early warning, integration of diverse datasets, and support for drug discovery and antibiotic stewardship. However, significant challenges remain, such as data standardisation issues, limited model transparency, infrastructure and resource gaps, ethical and privacy concerns, and difficulties in real-world implementation and validation.

Conclusion: Overall, while AI has great potential to improve AMR management, fully realising its benefits will require investment in explainable AI, better data infrastructure, stronger cross-sector collaboration, and clear regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical and effective use within the One Health approach.

Introduction: Rabies remains a significant public health threat in Ghana, especially in endemic urban areas such as Techiman Metropolitan. This communication highlights the role of empowered dog owners and coordinated One Health actions in eliminating human rabies cases through a community-led intervention model.

Methods: A metropolitan-wide rabies prevention initiative was implemented from 2022 to 2024 under the leadership of the Veterinary Services Directorate. The study area has a population of about 243,335 and an estimated dog population of 8,000. Baseline dog vaccination coverage in 2022 was 31.4%. The intervention engaged dog owners in responsible pet ownership practices, including annual vaccination, confinement, and immediate reporting of dog bites. Simultaneously, the One Health team, comprising veterinary officers, public health workers, and local authorities, coordinated mass dog vaccination campaigns, cross-sectoral surveillance, and ensured timely administration of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) through integrated referral systems.

Results: Of the 8,000 estimated dogs, 5,600 (70%) were vaccinated in 2024, compared to 2,355/7,500 (31.4%) in 2021 (χ² = 1,502.7, p < 0.001). Among vaccinated dogs, 422 (6.0%) had previously bitten humans. Bite reporting increased from 106 cases in 2021 to 180 in 2024 (60.7% increase, χ² = 15.2, p < 0.001). No human rabies deaths were recorded in 2024, compared to an annual average of six deaths between 2017-2023. These results were achieved through community sensitization, intersectoral collaboration, and the decentralization of vaccination and reporting services.

Discussion: The success of the intervention demonstrates that community empowerment and integration of veterinary and human health services through the One Health model are critical to interrupting rabies transmission. The approach provides a scalable framework for rabies control in other endemic settings, supporting the World Health Organisation's Zero-by-2030 strategy for global rabies elimination.

Background: The practice of dog trade and butchery for human consumption is documented in some countries in Africa. Increasing demand for dog meat has resulted in increased transboundary movements of trade-dogs, which creates opportunities for the potential transmission of rabies. This study estimated the probability of rabies virus introduction into the dog slaughter environment, exposure among dog butchers, and the effectiveness of risk mitigation measures in Ghana and Nigeria.

Methods: We developed Quantitative Risk Analysis models for Ghana and Nigeria due to active within-country and transborder dog trade in both countries. The models quantified the risk of acquiring rabies among dog butchers in these countries and evaluated risk mitigation options, including butchers' vaccination, education, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and dog vaccination. The models were parameterized based on data from published reports on activities related to dog trade and butchery and live interviews with butchers in selected dog markets. Experts' opinions were used for data triangulation, and sensitivity analyses were performed for variables in the models.

Results: Encounters with rabid dogs were much higher with the inclusion of transboundary dogs compared to in-country dogs only. This increased the probability estimates of rabies infection among butchers by 66.2% (6.5 to 10.8/850 butchers/yr) and 238.2% (16.5 to 55.8/1,750 butchers/yr) in Ghana and Nigeria, respectively. The probability of bite and consequent infection risk were key drivers of uncertainty in the models. Vaccination of 70% of the dog population as recommended by the World Health Organization could reduce butcher infections by 62% and 70% in Ghana and Nigeria, respectively. In comparison, appropriate post-exposure vaccination of butchers would reduce infections by 100% in both countries. Where optimal dog vaccination and subsidized butcher vaccination are nonexistent due to cost and other logistics, continuous butcher education combined with enforced use of PPE could drastically reduce exposure risk.

Conclusion: Creating awareness of the importance of dog trade and butchering as potential occupational sources of rabies transmission, and regulation of dog trade in affected countries are critical for the realization of the global target of "Zero Dog-Mediated Human Rabies by 2030".

Background: Malaria remains one of the greatest issues in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods: This study aimed to identify the socio-economic and environmental determinants influencing the transmission of malaria and its incidence in West Africa. A systematic review was conducted using articles published from January 1989 to April 2025, within PubMed and Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) databases. A total of 1145 articles related to our topic were found in the PubMed database, and 125 articles were identified in the DOAJ database. After inclusion and exclusion criteria, 68 articles were selected from both databases.

Results: The results indicate that among the environmental determinants, air temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, and vegetation are the most common environmental factors that predict malaria transmission. Moreover, education level, place of residence, housing structure, poverty, and quality of information are the key socio-economic determinants to consider in the prediction of malaria.

Conclusion: These factors can be indicators for target programmes for the elimination and prevention of the infection of malaria in West Africa.

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), as an original One Health problem, combines inextricable interactions between the human, animal and environmental dimensions. Addressing this challenge requires systemic thinking and coordinated networking between different levels of society and regional institutions. Knowledge of causal relationships, their mutual influence and the ability to assess the impact of possible interventions are prerequisites for coherent action to combat the further spread of antimicrobial resistance in a region. An integrated regional approach has not yet been addressed in One Health research on antimicrobial resistance.

Methods: This study is based on a systems thinking approach and uses a causal loop diagram to visualise the relationships between human, animal and ecological components in a circular AMR system map for a One Health model region. The participatory approach actively involved regional stakeholders in the data collection and modelling process through surveys, semi structured interviews and interactive workshops. Based on the developed causal loop diagram, leverage point analysis is applied to estimate which types of interventions would have the greatest ability to address antimicrobial resistance in the One Health region.

Results: Our results show that the system mapping tool is suitable for demonstrating the relationships regarding AMR in the One Health context for a defined region. It provides an opportunity to identify and visualise important risk factors that are direct or indirect drivers of AMR. Specifically, two amplifying and two balancing loops have been constructed in the model, covering antibiotic stewardship, public awareness, regional data management and environmental impact. Interdisciplinary and intersectoral collaboration, homogeneity of data and public awareness were identified as important leverage points. The graphical illustration of the causal loop diagram enables political and economic decision-makers to develop a deeper understanding of regional resistance patterns and the rational use of antibiotics from a One Health perspective.

Conclusion: This study is one of the first applications of a participatory systems thinking approach to the topic of AMR in the context of a One Health region.

Trail registration: Not applicable.

Background: The recurrent threat of zoonotic diseases necessitates integrated, multisectoral strategies, such as the One Health, which recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health. Institutionalising such approaches requires comprehensive national policy frameworks that ensure cross-sectoral coordination, sustainable resource allocation, and robust governance mechanisms. Bhutan adopted One Health in 2013, however, its integration into national policies remains unexplored. This study aimed to examine Bhutan's policy landscape for zoonotic disease prevention and control through a One Health lens.

Methods: Eleven documents related to zoonotic disease prevention and control in Bhutan, published between 2013 and 2024, were retrieved from official government websites and obtained from relevant authorities. A qualitative document analysis was conducted, guided by the Policy Triangle Framework, which evaluates policy across four dimensions: Actors, Context, Content, and Process. Key One Health components were mapped to each dimension using internationally recognised One Health frameworks to systematically evaluate the extent to which Bhutan's zoonotic disease policies align with the principles of One Health approach.

Results: The findings revealed clearly defined roles and responsibilities among key stakeholders, but limited inclusion of the environmental sector. While the policies reflected contextual relevance and alignment to international disease prevention and control frameworks, their integration with holistic One Health strategies remained limited due to persistent sectoral silos. Policy contents revealed a strong commitment to disease prevention and control, but major gaps were identified in financial planning, human resource development, and investment in technical infrastructure. Policy processes were largely undocumented, with weak stakeholder engagement, limited cross-sectoral coordination, and absence of robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.

Conclusions: Strengthening policy design, enhancing governance structures and institutional frameworks are essential to improve intersectoral coordination, resource allocation, and stakeholder engagement for effective operationalisation of zoonotic disease prevention and control within the One Health framework in Bhutan. The insights from this study may offer practical implications for low- and middle-income countries working to embed One Health into national policy. Furthermore, it demonstrates how the Policy Triangle Framework can be adapted to systematically evaluate policy alignment in the context of One Health.