Biothreat & One Health: Current scenario & way forward

Area of Science:

• One Health
• Ecology
• Public Health

Background:

• Increasing global interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the environment.
• Factors like population growth, urbanization, and climate change enhance the risk of novel pathogen emergence.
• The deliberate use of biological agents as weapons poses a significant threat.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the growing risk of biothreats, both natural and deliberate.
• To emphasize the need for a unified response strategy.
• To underscore the importance of the One Health concept in biothreat preparedness.

Main Methods:

• Review of current understanding of pathogen emergence and bioweapon threats.
• Analysis of the challenges in differentiating natural and deliberate biothreat incidents.
• Discussion of the essential components for an effective biothreat response.

Main Results:

• Biothreats can emerge unexpectedly from wildlife due to global changes.
• Distinguishing between natural and deliberate biothreats is becoming increasingly difficult.
• A coordinated response is necessary to mitigate the impact on health, agriculture, and the economy.

Conclusions:

• The One Health framework is essential for addressing emerging infectious diseases and biothreats.
• Comprehensive surveillance, early detection, and collaborative action are vital.
• International and national cooperation is required to prevent and manage biothreats effectively.