Applying the One Health Concept to Mycobacterial Research - Overcoming Parochialism

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Public Health
• Microbiology

Background:

• Mycobacterial infections are a persistent global health issue affecting humans and animals.
• Existing reviews often compartmentalize human or animal aspects, neglecting the zoonotic link.
• A comprehensive understanding of mycobacterial zoonoses within the One Health framework is currently lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To consolidate existing literature on the zoonotic potential of various mycobacterial species.
• To underscore the importance of an inter-sectorial, One Health strategy for controlling mycobacterial diseases.
• To provide a foundational resource for future research and public health interventions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of studies on mycobacterial infections.
• Analysis of the zoonotic transmission pathways of different mycobacteria.
• Examination of the One Health approach in the context of mycobacterial disease control.

Main Results:

• Identified diverse mycobacterial species with significant zoonotic potential.
• Highlighted the interconnectedness of human and animal health regarding mycobacterial pathogens.
• Emphasized the limitations of single-sector approaches in managing these infections.

Conclusions:

• Mycobacterial infections necessitate a unified One Health strategy due to their zoonotic nature.
• Inter-sectorial collaboration is crucial for developing innovative control measures.
• Further research integrating human, animal, and environmental health perspectives is essential.