Rotarian Dr. Md. Hemayatul Islam Arif: Absolutely! Livestock plays a crucial role in the One Health approach, which highlights the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Here are some ways in which livestock is fundamental to this approach:
1. Food Security and Nutrition: Livestock provides essential nutrients through meat, milk, and eggs, contributing to food security and nutrition, especially in developing countries.
2. Economic Livelihoods: Many communities rely on livestock for their economic livelihoods. Livestock farming supports the livelihoods of millions of people, particularly in rural areas.
3. Zoonotic Diseases: Livestock can be both a source and a reservoir for zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. Managing livestock health is crucial for preventing outbreaks of diseases like avian influenza, bovine tuberculosis, and zoonotic parasites.
4. Environmental Impact: Livestock farming can have significant environmental impacts, including land degradation, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable livestock management practices are essential for minimizing these impacts.
5. Antimicrobial Resistance: The use of antibiotics in livestock can contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance, which is a major public health concern. Implementing responsible use of antibiotics in animal husbandry is a key aspect of the One Health approach.
6. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services: Livestock grazing can influence biodiversity and ecosystem services. Managed properly, livestock can contribute to the maintenance of grasslands and other ecosystems.
In the context of veterinary and agricultural practices, efforts like Artificial Insemination Services play a significant role in improving livestock health and productivity, which in turn supports the goals of the One Health approach.
One health initiatives in Bangladesh
One Health initiatives in Bangladesh have a rich history, reflecting the country's commitment to addressing the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health. Here are some key milestones and developments:
Early Developments
•1960s-1980s: The foundation for One Health initiatives in Bangladesh was laid with the establishment of veterinary and public health infrastructure. During this period, veterinary services, animal health research, and public health programs began to take shape.
1990s
• Emergence of Zoonotic Disease Programs: With the recognition of zoonotic diseases' impact on public health, Bangladesh started focusing more on diseases that affect both animals and humans, such as avian influenza, rabies, and brucellosis.
2000s
• Strengthening Surveillance and Response: The outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the early 2000s prompted significant investment in disease surveillance and response systems. The government, in collaboration with international organizations like the FAO and WHO, worked to improve early detection and response capabilities for zoonotic diseases.
2010s
• Formation of One Health Framework: In 2012, Bangladesh formally adopted the One Health approach with the formation of the Bangladesh One Health Secretariat, which aimed to foster collaboration among various sectors, including public health, animal health, and environmental health.
• One Health Strategic Framework (2012-2016): This period saw the development and implementation of a national One Health Strategic Framework, which outlined goals and strategies for addressing zoonotic diseases, improving food safety, and enhancing environmental health.
• Joint Risk Assessment: Bangladesh conducted joint risk assessments for several zoonotic diseases, facilitating better understanding and management of these threats through collaborative efforts between the ministries of health, livestock, and environment.
2020s
• COVID-19 Pandemic Response: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of the One Health approach. Bangladesh leveraged its One Health framework to coordinate responses between human and animal health sectors, contributing to the management and control of the pandemic.
• Continued Efforts and Collaborations: Ongoing initiatives focus on antimicrobial resistance, rabies elimination, and the control of emerging infectious diseases. Collaborations with international partners, such as the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) and the One Health Workforce, continue to strengthen the country's One Health capacity.
Key Organizations and Stakeholders
• Government Agencies: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change are primary government stakeholders in One Health initiatives.
• International Organizations: The World Health Organization (WHO), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) provide support and collaboration.
• Academic and Research Institutions: Universities and research institutions in Bangladesh contribute to One Health research, education, and policy development.
Bangladesh's history of One Health initiatives demonstrates a growing recognition of the need for an integrated approach to health challenges, emphasizing collaboration and coordination across sectors to achieve better health outcomes for humans, animals, and the environment.
Rtn. Dr. Md. Hemayatul Islam Arif
DVM, MS in Obstetrics, PhD, PGD in Management and PGT in India, Philippines, Thailand & Malaysia
Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer
Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh & President (2023-24), Rotary Club of Rajshahi Central, RID-64, Bangladesh
General Secretary, Bangladesh Livestock Society (BLS)
Joint Executive Editor (Bangladesh livestock journal; ISSN 2409-7691)
Secretary SHUJON,(Rajshahi Metropolitan), President, BBCF, Rajshahi
