WFPHA Launches One Health Working Group

The World Federation of Public Health Associations has approved a new working group on One Health during its General Assembly on May 26, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland. The group will be chaired by Prof. Xiao-Nong Zhou from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China, and Prof. Carlos Machado from Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Brazil.

What is One Health?

One Health emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. It is crucial for addressing global public health challenges such as zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental changes. Despite efforts from organizations like FAO, UNEP, WOAH, and WHO, fragmented policy implementation and lack of multisectoral collaboration persist. The One Health Working Group aims to bridge these gaps by fostering global cooperation.

Vision and Objectives

Vision

The group aims to strengthen global health security at the human-animal-environment interface by promoting global collaboration, influencing policy, and enhancing knowledge and capacity in One Health.

Objectives

• Promote Global Collaboration: Establish One Health platforms for interdisciplinary cooperation across health, environmental, and policy sectors.
• Enhance Dissemination: Advocate for One Health principles in global and national policies through policy briefings and communications.
• Improve Knowledge and Capacity Building: Develop and enhance One Health knowledge through scientific collaboration and educational programs.