Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Treaty recognises animal health in pandemic plans
A4AH believes the Covid-19 pandemic highlights the need for focus on zoonotic diseases.
The Pandemic Agreement includes a One Health approach.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has passed a legally binding treaty, which is committed to protecting animals and the environment in the case of a pandemic.

The Pandemic Agreement, which was confirmed this week, will follow a One Health framework to guide international action against the outbreak of a pandemic.

Campaigning to integrate a One Health approach into the treaty has been fronted by the Action for Animal Health (A4AH) coalition. Led by working animal charity Brooke, A4AH has been engaged in consultations and lobbying efforts since negotiations began.

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, A4AH believes that there should be a global focus on zoonotic diseases. It refers to the development of disease as a consequence of interactions with animals and the environment, including ecological degradation, commercial wildlife trade and livestock farming.

A4AH states that over 75 per cent of new human infectious disease originated in animals.

The Pandemic Agreement marks the first time that One Health policies have been included in a legally binding global treaty. It is designed to provide a framework for incorporating animal and environmental health into international action for pandemic responses.

Both A4AH and Brooke are now calling on governments, donors and international agencies to improve investments into animal health systems, which they say will benefit the health of both animals and humans.

As part of their action on the new treaty, A4AH has committed to providing technical advice and support to member states.

Esme Wheeler, global affairs advisor at Brooke, said: “We are delighted to see our recommendations on One Health, animal health and prevention at source in this landmark agreement.”

She added: “We hope this will provide a foundation from which we, as a global community, can start to address some of the most appalling human-led behaviours and practices towards animals and the environment and build a healthier future for all.”

Image © Shutterstock

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Strangles survey seeks views of horse owners

News Story 1
 With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.

The survey, which has been designed by Dechra, aims to raise awareness of Strangles and promote best practices to prevent its transmission. It includes questions about horse owners' experiences of strangles, together with preventative measures and vaccination.

Respondents to the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win two VIP tickets to Your Horse Live 2025. To access the survey, click here 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Vivienne Mackinnon elected BVA Scottish Branch President

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has elected Vivienne Mackinnon as its new BVA Scottish Branch president.

Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.

In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.

Dr Mackinnon said: "I look forward to working with colleagues across the veterinary professions to improve animal health and welfare in the country and support veterinary workplaces."