Between pathogens, people and policy

This week’s developments reiterate the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health, the threat posed by emerging and spreading pathogens, and the need for a coordinated One Health approach to prevent future disease outbreaks | Image used for representational purpose only | Photo Credit: AFP Today, the world observes One Health Day, a period set aside to to remember that human, animal and environmental health are intricately inter-connected, a fact the human species seems to be increasingly forgetting or ignoring. It’s not for lack of reminders though: the natural world tells us, from time to time, in no uncertain terms that unless we give equal priority to all three -- and that means attention, funds and resources -- that we risk the spread of illnesses, the loss of cattle and crops, and increase climate disasters.Where are we and where do we go from here? Published - November 03, 2026 03:35 pm IST