Animals and humans are living in closer proximity than ever before due to population growth, urbanisation, deforestation and climate change. It is more important than ever that our animals are healthy – not just for their sakes, but ours too.
Millions of people rely on animals not only for food but also for livelihoods and core needs such as clothing, transport and power. However, animal health can also greatly affect human health. In fact, approximately 75 percent of emerging infectious diseases in humans are ‘zoonotic’- meaning that they can spread from animals to the human population. Zoonotic diseases have been responsible for some of the most damaging disease outbreaks in recent decades such as SARS, Ebola and Avian influenza.
Whether a disease spreads in a particular region (epidemics) or more widely across multiple countries (pandemics), it can lead to losses of life, negatively impact livelihoods and inflict a devastating impact on development. Usually, diseases disproportionately affect poorer communities, women and children.
Protecting people, animals and the environment starts by stopping disease outbreaks, which could become pandemics. Here are five of ways that FAO’s work helps achieve this:
1. Strengthening animal health systems every day
The best method of protection is prevention. FAO is dedicated to building the capacity of at-risk countries so that they can swiftly respond to and manage outbreaks. FAO monitors local animal health capacity and delivers training and technical assistance to countries on disease surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, outbreak reporting and investigation, as well as preparedness and response.
2. Detecting outbreaks at their source
FAO has developed unique software and systems to receive, analyse and model potential disease outbreaks. Using data received daily from 190 countries across the world, the FAO Global Animal Disease Information System (EMPRES-i) generates maps of potential threats. This links up to the Global Early Warning System (GLEWS+) which shares information with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE).
The EMPRES system works due to collaboration with extensive networks of FAO country and regional offices, who are in constant contact with governments, local farmers and animal health professionals. Smartphone users in remote areas can submit data directly using FAO’s Event Mobile Application, helping gather up-to-date knowledge in real time. FAO uses databases and maps generated by these systems to spot trends in animal disease circulation and forecast animal disease threats of potential regional or international concern, helping communities prepare and respond quickly.