Frameworks for Preventing, Detecting, and Controlling Zoonotic Diseases

Abstract

Preventing zoonotic diseases requires coordinated actions by government authorities responsible for human and animal health. Constructing the frameworks needed to foster intersectoral collaboration can be approached in many ways. We highlight 3 examples of approaches to implement zoonotic disease prevention and control programs. The first, rabies control in Ethiopia, was implemented using an umbrella approach: a comprehensive program designed for accelerated impact. The second, a monkeypox program in Democratic Republic of the Congo, was implemented in a stepwise manner, whereby incremental improvements and activities were incorporated into the program. The third approach, a pathogen discovery program, applied in the country of Georgia, was designed to characterize and understand the ecology, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of a new zoonotic pathogen. No one approach is superior, but various factors should be taken into account during design, planning, and implementation.

Emergence of Monkeypox — West and Central Africa, 1970–2017

“…Improvements in laboratory capacity require training in laboratory procedures, the types of specimens to collect, and safe specimen collection, storage, and transportation. Improvements in the capacity to detect monkeypox virus have been found to increase zoonotic disease detection and response, as seen during the Ebola virus disease response in Tshuapa Province of DRC ( 10 ). Regional trainings to increase national-level expertise and the sharing of country-level experiences will have the potential to build a network for exchange of best practices and technical support.…”

Vaccinating against monkeypox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

“…The establishment of this robust surveillance platform has made it possible to undertake a number of research studies that have contributed to our understanding of the epidemiology of MPX in the region (Shiferaw et al, 2017), and has allowed for passive monitoring of risk groups. This led to the recognition of healthcare workers (HCWs) as a group at enhanced risk for infection (Bass et al, 2013).…”

Progress and Opportunities for Strengthening Global Health Security

“…Several countries have conducted One Health prioritization exercises to identify their major zoonotic diseases ( 10 ), a critical step in efforts to control endemic zoonotic diseases ( 11 ). Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Georgia are all developing successful integrated zoonotic prevention and control programs ( 12 ). …”