Good governance for early detection and rapid response

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Animal Disease Control

Background:

• Global epidemics of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza underscore the need for effective animal disease control.
• Zoonotic diseases pose significant public health risks, necessitating robust animal health surveillance.
• The challenges in controlling animal diseases are often linked to the capacity of veterinary services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight critical aspects for effective and rapid control of animal diseases, including zoonoses.
• To emphasize the importance of strong and well-governed veterinary services for disease surveillance and control.
• To outline the necessary components for effective veterinary response: expertise, resources, and legislation.

Main Methods:

• Review of experiences with global H5N1 avian influenza epidemics.
• Analysis of factors contributing to challenges in animal disease surveillance and control.
• Examination of the role and actions of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

Main Results:

• Effective control of animal diseases, particularly zoonoses like H5N1, is contingent upon strong veterinary services.
• Weak or poorly governed veterinary services significantly impede disease surveillance and control efforts.
• Access to expertise, adequate resources, and appropriate legislation are vital for veterinary service effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Strengthening veterinary services is a global priority for improving animal health and mitigating zoonotic disease risks.
• The OIE is actively involved in providing recommendations and taking action to enhance veterinary service capacity worldwide.
• Investment in veterinary infrastructure and governance is crucial for global health security.