Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: COMSTECH in a webinar “A One Health Approach to Zoonotic Outbreaks” held here Thursday explored the implementation of the One Health approach and emphasized the need for coordinated, cross-sectoral collaboration to effectively prevent and manage zoonotic outbreaks.
The webinar was conducted by Dr. Tariq Mahmood Ali, Dean of Social Sciences at the Health Services Academy (HSA).
Dr. Tariq’s talk delved into the critical concept of “One Health,” a collaborative approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
This approach is crucial in addressing zoonotic outbreaks – infectious diseases that jump from animals to humans, such as rabies, SARS, and COVID-19.
Dr. Tariq introduced the One Health framework, highlighting the question of how increased human-animal interaction can lead to significant health crises.
He explored the multidisciplinary strategy, encompassing preparedness, alert, response, and recovery, for effective outbreak management.
He defined public health and its role in preventing disease and promoting well-being for all.
Dr. Tariq analysed the four phases of outbreak response – preparedness, alert, response, and recovery – emphasizing the importance of collaboration across human, animal, and environmental health sectors.
Dr. Tariq explored the critical role of animal health in managing zoonotic outbreaks.
He highlighted how veterinary services play a vital role in preventing and controlling diseases transmitted between animals and humans, including those from livestock, companion animals, and wildlife. Challenges like antimicrobial resistance and global trade were discussed, along with the need for coordinated action across human, environmental, and animal health sectors.
He emphasized the importance of preparedness, early detection, effective communication, and collaboration between public and private veterinary services.
Dr. Tariq concluded by acknowledging existing challenges and advocating for continued coordination and integration across sectors.
Dr. Tariq is a distinguished academic and public sector professional with over 20 years of experience.
He holds a PhD in Economics and degrees in Statistics, Mathematics, and Economics, and has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals. More than fifty participants from different OIC member states participated in the webinar.
