YANGCHEN LHAMO | Thimphu
On April 29, the Bhutan One Health Secretariat spearheaded a pivotal event to address the pressing issue of zoonotic diseases through a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach.
Bringing together key stakeholders from various sectors, the workshop served as a platform to prioritize zoonotic diseases and enhance capacity in joint risk assessment, marking a significant step towards safeguarding both human and animal health.
Under the auspices of the Pandemic Fund Project, the Bhutan One Health Secretariat orchestrated a workshop that gathered experts from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), and the World Health Organization (WHO).
This innovative initiative is aimed at confronting the challenges posed by zoonotic diseases by leveraging the principles of One Health โ an approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
Central to the workshop’s agenda was the task of prioritizing zoonotic diseases based on their impact on human, animal, and environmental well-being.
Utilizing prioritization and risk assessment tools developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the tripartite collaboration, participants engaged in insightful discussions and collaborative exercises to identify and address the most pressing disease threats.
The workshop targeted professionals operating at the interface of human, animal, and environmental health, and provided a forum for interactive dialogue and consensus-building. Through expert presentations, interactive group work, and case-based discussions, participants gained valuable insights into effective disease surveillance, response planning, and communication strategies.
By harnessing the collective expertise and resources of stakeholders across sectors, the workshop aimed to bolster national preparedness and response to zoonotic disease outbreaks. Recognizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, participants were empowered with actionable resources to mitigate the impact of zoonotic diseases on the human-animal-environment interphase.
The week-long workshop, inaugurated by the Chair of the Inter-Ministerial Committee for One Health (IMCOH) and Secretary of the Ministry of Health, commenced with a ceremonious opening attended by distinguished representatives from the FAO, WHO, and WOAH.
Directors from the Department of Livestock, the Department of Public Health, and Assistant FAO representatives also attended the event, underscoring the collective commitment to combatting zoonotic diseases.
With a total of 42 participants representing various sectors, including representatives from the Food, Wildlife, and Environment sectors, the workshop symbolized the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility in addressing complex public health challenges.
The workshop exemplifies a concerted effort towards a safer and healthier future. Grounded in the principles of One Health, the initiative underscores the imperative of collective action in safeguarding the well-being of both humans and animals, ensuring a harmonious coexistence within our interconnected ecosystems.
The Bhutan One Health Workshop represents a beacon of hope and solidarity in the global fight against zoonotic diseases, serving as a testament to the power of collaboration and collective determination in shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.
