European Medicines Agency’s Post

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 global goals designed to address a range of social, economic, and environmental challenges. All the  United Nations Member States adopted the SDGs in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Some of these goals focus on health (human, animal, and environmental). Hence, the importance of adopting a One Health approach to pursue them is self-explicatory. Understanding the crucial nature of this interconnected health landscape, the Quadripartite alliance, comprising the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), established a common objective within the One Health Joint Plan of Action (OH JPA) for the period 2022–2026.   The plan, officially launched in October 2022, provides guidance for including the One Health approach at country level and within the United Nation Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The plan is structured around six interdependent action tracks, aimed at achieving sustainable health and food systems, reducing global health threats, and enhancing ecosystem management. Aims of One Health Joint Plan of Action (OH JPA) •Enhancing One Health Capacities: •Focused on strengthening health systems. •Reducing Zoonotic Epidemics and Pandemics: Addressing emerging and re-emerging zoonotic threats. •Controlling Endemic Diseases: Targeting endemic zoonotic, neglected tropical, and vector-borne diseases. •Managing Food Safety Risks: Strengthening the assessment, management, and communication of food safety risks. •Combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Addressing the silent pandemic of AMR. •Integrating the Environment. Incorporating environmental considerations into the One Health approach is of great importance. Without a One Health approach, there is an opportunity for ongoing zoonotic pandemics, growing risks to food safety, and environmental degradation. Prompt global action and resource allocation are required to  avoid catastrophic consequences for the health of people, animals, and the environment.

I recently presented on the Importance of #OneHealth in Dairying at the International Dairy Federation Regional Dairy Summit Asia Pacific, which included a situational update on #HPAI #H5N1 in US dairy herds. HPAI H5N1 is a perfect case study as to why One Health is so critical in how we structure our response and intervention efforts. While it is often difficult to communicate the full value of prevention investments to stakeholders, all economic models show that the cost of aggressive prevention now is far less than the cost of a pandemic later. But what does a One Health approach in this situation really mean and how can it add impact to our response efforts for HPAI H5N1 in #dairy herds? 1. Integrated One Health risk assessments that are linked to Emergency Preparedness and Response Plans are a way where we can add direct value to farm operations. The recently published One Health Joint Plan of Action, combined with existing industry assessment standards, would be a great place to start. We also can learn much from the swine and poultry industries who have already dealt with influenza virus incursions. 2. Performing risk assessments and creating recommendations for farms to enhance biosecurity measures will not result in improvements if there are not resources available to overcome these cost barriers. This is particularly true for smaller operations. Government agencies can play a role to supplement farm safety enhancement costs as well as industry partners. 3. There needs to be greater incentives for farms to participate in virus surveillance programs, including higher remuneration amounts for operations that have outbreaks. These funding mechanisms also cannot be bogged down with complicated bureaucratic application processes. We must remove the economic risks recognizing, again, that investment in prevention is cost saving in the long term. 4. Environmental surveillance, including retail milk and wastewater testing, are effective ways to track viral transmission at the population level. Ideally, we should be tracking more in milk as this is a direct reflection of viral circulation in dairy herds which then should be paired that with aggressive response program per #3 above. If we are waiting to track the virus once it makes it to human-oriented surveillance systems we have already lost. 5. There needs to be more robust data sharing and transparency in communication, particularly regarding experiences of dairy farms already dealing with HPAI H5N1 outbreaks. Michigan is a great example of this. More is welcomed. 6. Vaccination of dairy cattle and workers should be a top priority in our response plan. Given the pandemic potential of H5N1, outbreaks in any one sector represent a #globalhealthsecurity risk for the entire world. Emerging Pathogens Institute University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions University of Florida Department of Environmental and Global Health

Antimicrobial Resistance: A Global Threat - The World Health Organization (WHO) lists AMR among the top 10 threats to global health. - Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) impacts:  - Human and animal health and welfare  - The environment  - Food and nutrition security and safety  - Economic development  - Equity within societies Advantages of "Freebac" in Livestock Farming - Reduction in antibiotic use: 80-100% - Pathogenic resistance: The formulation ensures no development of resistance. - Food safety: Contains food-grade ingredients and does not affect food safety when used as instructed. - Sustainability: Naturally degrades into oxygen and water. - Water quality: No change in taste, smell, or appearance of water, leading to correct water intake in livestock. - Animal health: Animals grow more efficiently, using energy for growth rather than fighting infections from polluted drinking water. - Operating conditions: Effective in temperatures from 0-90°C and pH range of 2-10. - Cost efficiency: Much lower costs with better animal health https://lnkd.in/gxGUQbSs

War in Ukraine, Covid 19, the impact of climate change and spiralling food and energy costs are changing people’s outlook. The general public is much more willing to embrace new food and farming technologies where they are used to tackle challenges of #foodsecurity, #health and #climatechange.   This was evidenced in recent research conducted by the Food Standards Agency #FSA, operating in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales, which showed that almost two thirds of the consuming public would eat #genedited food if, for example, it offered #health benefits (65%), was better for the #environment (64%), was safer for people with #allergies (64%), tasted better (62%), was cheaper (61%) or more resilient to a changing climate (60%). ℹ https://lnkd.in/gkGtt3mm #NGTs #GrowingTheFuture European Parliament Jessica Polfjärd Pascal Canfin Christophe Clergeau Martin Häusling Pietro Fiocchi Anja Hazekamp

🌟 The Critical Role of Identifying Animal Species in Food and Feed Products 🌟   In today's world, accurate identification of animal species in food and feed is essential. It ensures safety, integrity, and compliance with standards, addressing concerns such as allergens, religious beliefs, and economic fraud.   📈 Growing Importance: Recent years have seen a surge in demand for precise identification of animal traits in various food products. Transparency is key, whether in highly processed foods or niche dietary preferences like vegetarian or vegan options.   🔍 Ensuring Safety: Accurate labelling of animal species is vital to mitigate contamination risks and disease transmission, empowering consumers to make informed choices and preventing potential health hazards.   💼 Managing Allergens: Proper identification is crucial for effective allergen management, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and ensuring consumer safety.   🙏 Respecting Beliefs: Accurate identification is imperative to honour dietary restrictions based on religious and cultural considerations, avoiding unintended consumption of prohibited ingredients.   💰 Combating Fraud: Rigorous testing for specific animal species helps prevent economic fraud, safeguarding consumers and legitimate producers alike.   📝 Upholding Compliance: Testing for declared animal species ensures adherence to global regulations, promoting transparency and accountability in the food industry.   🔄 Maintaining Integrity: Identifying animal species maintains supply chain integrity, enabling traceability and accountability throughout production, processing, and distribution.   🛒 Inspiring Confidence: Accurate labelling and testing instil consumer trust in product authenticity and quality, fostering strong relationships between consumers and producers.   In conclusion, identifying animal species in food and feed is fundamental to safety, integrity, and trust in the global food supply chain. Prioritising transparency and accountability is key for a sustainable future. Let's uphold these standards together! 🌍 #FoodSafety #Transparency #Accountability #ConsumerConfidence #KatalystLaboratories #animals #animaldiagnostics For more information on solutions in identifying animal species in food and feed contact us at [email protected] or visit our website https://lnkd.in/g_QH3GTh

How does #climatechange affect mycotoxin contamination in dairy products? We discussed this question with experts and stakeholders at a stakeholder workshop. Mycotoxins are toxins produced by various types of molds. They are contained in agricultural products or groceries and can have both long-term and short-term negative effects on human health. Climate change influences both fungal growth and the production of mycotoxins. The Veterinary Public Health Institute (VPHI), #unibern, together with our partners from #EBP, discussed the information required by practitioners and the form it should take with representatives from the milk processing industry, authorities, and the scientific community. The aim is to be able to consider the risks of mycotoxin contamination in food production. 💡 The participants agreed that the risk of mycotoxin contamination in dairy products is currently very small. Because this might change under scenarios of climate change, more information should be provided on this topic. Together, we identified how to prepare it in a way that is appropriate for the target group. The results of the workshop will be further developed in an ongoing dialog with relevant stakeholders and researchers and will be incorporated into the development of relevant products for decision-support. 🔎 The work is carried out as part of the "NCCS-Impacts" program as part of the project "Impacts of climate change on human and animal health, well-being and performance and on food safety in Switzerland".   Many thanks for the great cooperation: National Centre for Climate Services NCCS, Universität Bern, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), @VPHI, EBP, Bundesamt für Gesundheit BAG, BLV OSAV USAV. We would like to thank all participants Agroscope, @SM, Bundesamt für Landwirtschaft BLW, @Kantonales Laboratorium Bern, Emmi Gruppe, @Fromarte , Emmentaler Switzerland, UFA for the constructive discussions.   #climatechange #health #foodsafety #NCCS #NCCSimpacts #Climateservices

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a pressing global health threat that affects not only humans but also animals and the environment. In the context of meat production and consumption, AMR poses a significant challenge with far-reaching implications for public health and food security. The One Health perspective recognizes the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and the environment. When it comes to AMR in the context of meat, this approach is crucial. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in livestock farming can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can then be transmitted to humans through the food chain or environmental contamination. This transmission can lead to difficult-to-treat infections in humans, posing a serious threat to public health. To address this complex issue, collaboration among human health professionals, veterinarians, environmental scientists, policymakers, and other stakeholders is essential. By working together, we can develop and implement strategies to reduce the spread of AMR in the meat production chain and protect both human and animal health. Effective measures include promoting responsible antibiotic use in livestock, improving hygiene and biosecurity practices in farms and slaughterhouses, and implementing surveillance systems to monitor the prevalence of AMR in meat products. Additionally, consumer education and awareness campaigns can play a vital role in reducing the demand for meat produced with antibiotics and encouraging sustainable and ethical farming practices. By adopting a One Health approach and taking coordinated action, we can mitigate the risks posed by AMR in meat production and safeguard the health of current and future generations. Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient food system for all. #OneHealth #AMR #SafeMeat

The Need for a One Health Approach Addressing Emerging Infectious Diseases: Emerging infectious diseases, over 60% of which are zoonotic, pose significant threats to global health. Diseases like Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19 have highlighted the importance of understanding and managing the interfaces between humans, animals, and the environment. A One Health approach facilitates the early detection, prevention, and control of these diseases by promoting collaboration between veterinarians, physicians, and environmental scientists. Combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Antimicrobial resistance is a major global health threat exacerbated by the misuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and agriculture. Coordinated efforts under a One Health framework are crucial for monitoring and reducing antibiotic use across all sectors. This holistic approach helps mitigate the spread of resistant pathogens, protecting both human and animal health. Protecting Environmental Health and Biodiversity: Environmental degradation, including deforestation, pollution, and climate change, disrupts ecosystems and increases the risk of zoonotic disease spillover. A One Health approach emphasizes the need to protect and preserve biodiversity, maintaining ecosystem balance and reducing disease transmission risks. This approach also addresses the health impacts of environmental factors, promoting sustainable development and resilience. Ensuring Food Security and Safety: Animal health is directly linked to food security and safety. Diseases in livestock can devastate food supplies and economies, while contaminated food products pose direct risks to human health. By integrating animal health surveillance and food safety measures, the One Health approach ensures safer food systems, contributing to global food security. Enhancing Global Health Security: The One Health approach strengthens global health security by fostering international collaboration and information sharing. Integrated disease surveillance systems that incorporate data from human, animal, and environmental health sectors enable quicker identification and response to outbreaks. This collective effort enhances global preparedness and resilience against health emergencies. Promoting Sustainable Development: One Health supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing health in the context of poverty alleviation, food security, environmental sustainability, and economic growth. By promoting a holistic view of health, the One Health approach contributes to more sustainable and equitable development outcomes.

how one health concept plays a crucial role in our daily? the one health concept pays a crucial role in promoting and safeguarding human health in several ways. 1) zoonotic disease control and prevention: Many infectious diseases originate in animals and can be transmitted to humans, posing significant public health risks. By adopting a One Health approach, which recognizes the interconectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, efforts can be coordinated to prevent and control zoonotic diseases more effectively. This includes monitoring and surveillance of disease transmission between animals and humans, implementing vaccination programs, and promoting proper hygiene and sanitation practices to reduce the risk of disease spread. 2)Food Safety and Security: The safety and security of the food supply are critical for protecting public health. This includes monitoring and controlling food borne pathogens in both animal and human populations, implementing food safety regulations and standards, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices to reduce the risk of food borne illnesses. 3) Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Mitigation: Antimicrobial resistance is a global health threat that affects both human and animal populations. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics in both human and veterinary medicine contribute to the development of resistant bacteria. The One Health approach emphasizes the judicious use of anti microbials in both human and animal health care settings, as well as promoting antimicrobial stewardship practices to preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations. and so on.

Glasgow meat case blazed trial for cleaner abattoirs An almost forgotten six-day trial iin 1889 was a milestone in public health. It led to improved inspection of abattoirs by local authorities. But obstruction from the meat and dairy sectors delayed effective national reforms for a further half century. On the 9th of May 1889, Peter Fyfe, Glasgow City Council’s chief sanitary inspector, saw something troubling in the city’s Moore Street slaughterhouse. Two carcasses showed red discolouration and contained nodules known to indicate the presence of tuberculosis. He seized and condemned the carcasses, judging them unfit for human consumption. The butchers involved appealed, triggering a six-day trial which, in retrospect, was highly significant. Its outcome helped environmental health officers to clean up a filthy trade which was costly in human lives, giving them more confidence in removing diseased meat from sale. Meat was dangerous because the trade was generally dealt with leniently by farmer-friendly magistrates, large authorities were hugely under-resourced for inspection and the meat and dairy industries vigorously denied that infected milk or animal products caused human illnesses. In the barely regulated abattoirs of Victorian Britain, animals were packed into filthy, overcrowded pens and there was no legal requirement for post or antemortem animal inspection. Diseased meat from emaciated, often decomposing carcasses was an important element of the diet of the poor. Dairies and cowsheds were as unhygienic as abattoirs, so the purity of milk could not be relied upon. In 1900, more than half of all deaths occurred to people below the age of 45, compared to 5% a century later. Infectious disease was the main cause and milk was a primary vector for typhoid, scarlet fever and diphtheria, as well as tuberculosis. Fyfe's action in 1889, was testing the boundaries of both science and the law. Scotland’s Public Health Act of 1867 allowed foodstuffs to be seized and condemned by local authorities, but the act had been patchily applied, particularly to the meat trade. Microbiology was still its infancy. German scientist Robert Koch had only recently identified the bacterium causing human tuberculosis, in 1882. And a link between the bovine and human TB had yet to be proved. Clarification was urgently required on the issue of whether localised signs of disease made whole carcasses unfit but in 1898, a Royal Commission on TB fudged the issue. A second Royal Commission, set up in 1901, dragged on for a decade, allowing uncertainty to continue. Regulations setting standards for slaughterhouse inspection did not come into force until 1924 and a national bill requiring the health certification of dairy herds did not appear until 1949. The Glasgow meat case has much to teach us about the need for precautionary, science-based practice, based on the best available understanding. This blog was written for RHE Global