One Health Approach: Integrating Human, Animal, and Environmental Health for Infectious Disease Control
Vivian Ukamaka Nwokedi *
Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria.
Bostock Chinecherem Okafor
Medicine and Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria.
Okabeonye Sunday Agbo
Department of Applied Biology and Biotechnology, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria.
Victor Chiedozie Ezeamii
Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, USA.
Chinaemerem Precious Ani
Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
Fatimah Adeola Mustapha
Department of Mathematics, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Oluwaseun Gideon Shoyebo
Department of Veterinary Surgery and Anaesthetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, Nigeria.
Evelyn Foster- Pagaebi
Department of Public -Private Partnership, JSI Research and Training Institute, Bayelsa, Nigeria.
Dike Blessing Chinyere
Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Infectious diseases continue to pose significant public health threats globally, with numerous outbreaks such as COVID-19, Ebola, and Zika resulting in high morbidity and mortality. These outbreaks underscore the limitations of conventional, fragmented health systems that inadequately address the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health. The One Health approach has emerged as a comprehensive strategy that recognizes and addresses these interdependencies.
Aims: This review aims to evaluate the One Health approach as a framework for the prevention, control, and management of infectious diseases. It seeks to highlight its relevance to zoonotic and emerging diseases and to provide insights into effective implementation strategies and future directions.
Study Design: A comprehensive narrative review of the One Health model, exploring its guiding principles, practical applications, and benefits in the context of infectious disease control.
Methodology: Literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Dimensions on February 10, 2025 and grey literature search was carried out to identify policy documents. Peer-reviewed articles, policy documents, and reports published between 2000 and 2025 were included. Relevant information was synthesized to explore the concept, applications, challenges, and benefits of the One Health approach.
Results: Findings indicate that the One Health approach facilitates integrated and coordinated responses to infectious disease threats by promoting collaboration among human health professionals, veterinarians, environmental scientists, and policymakers. Its implementation enhances disease surveillance, promotes early detection, optimizes resource use, and strengthens outbreak preparedness and response. However, challenges such as lack of cross-sectoral coordination, limited funding, and institutional barriers hinder its widespread adoption.
Conclusion: The One Health approach is a vital strategy for combating infectious diseases, particularly zoonotic and emerging diseases. Its holistic and collaborative nature supports more effective disease control and prevention. For optimal impact, stronger policy frameworks, capacity-building initiatives, and sustained multisectoral collaboration are essential to fully integrate One Health principles into public health systems.
Keywords: One health, infectious diseases, zoonotic diseases, emerging diseases, public health, global health