Pushing One Health approach, U.P. priorities early identification and reporting of emerging zoonotic diseases

Uttar Pradesh's Animal Husbandry Department is bolstering its capacity to swiftly identify and report emerging zoonotic diseases, according to a statement from Additional Chief Secretary Mukesh Kumar Meshram. The department has recently published a compendium for veterinarians focused on zoonotic and priority animal diseases, detailing standard case definitions, surveillance techniques, and the importance of timely disease reporting.

The department aims to enhance its diagnostic capabilities through ELISA-based testing for priority zoonotic diseases. Efforts are also being made to bolster farm-level biosecurity in Pilibhit and Gorakhpur districts, as well as promote improved disease prevention and infection control practices.

Meshram highlighted the department's commitment to implementing a One Health approach, emphasizing the importance of coordinated interdepartmental action. Under the RISE Global Health Security (RISE GHS) Project, the department has successfully conducted active surveillance for Avian Influenza among wild migratory birds at 19 Ramsar sites and other significant wetlands across the state.

Plans are in place to replicate this surveillance during the upcoming migratory bird season at all Ramsar sites and additional wetlands. The department is also set to implement a State-Level Training of Trainers program for government veterinarians, further strengthening the One Health systems through coordinated interdepartmental efforts.