Why One Health matters to people – presented at the World AMR Congress, 2024
On the 5th and 6th of September 2024, Dr Francesca Chiara, Chair of the Board of The AMR Narrative, moderated a One Health session at the World AMR Congress in Philadelphia.
The session focused on critical topics, including infodemic management around antimicrobial resistance (AMR), wastewater surveillance, antibiotic use in livestock, and alternative treatments. Discussions also covered country efforts to address AMR across sectors, extending beyond human health to include animals and the environment.
The One Health concept acknowledges the intricate connections between human health, animal health, food production and the environment. Antimicrobials are widely used not only in humans but also in agriculture, and residues of these drugs—as well as antimicrobial-resistant genes—can be found in the environment, particularly in water sources. This creates a dangerous cycle where resistant microorganisms (germs), such as bacteria, and genes can spread across species and ecosystems including to humans. Addressing AMR requires a holistic approach that promotes the responsible use of antimicrobials in all sectors.
For instance, monitoring environmental contamination, especially in wastewater, can complement traditional AMR surveillance. By identifying resistant bacteria in the environment, we can predict outbreaks and track the evolution of resistant infections before they further spread to people.
Why should patients and members of the public care about a One Health approach?
Understanding that AMR is not confined to hospitals or healthcare settings is key to grasping the full scale of this global health threat. Resistant infections can emerge through multiple pathways, including food and water, affecting food security and safety. A One Health approach underscores that protecting human health depends on addressing AMR holistically—across all sectors and ecosystems.
Speakers included:
- Catherine Bertrand Ferrandis, Founder, OLYLO
- Valerie Morley, Senior Scientist, Pathogen Genetics, Ginkgo Biosecurity
- Windi Muziasari, Chief Executive Officer, Resistomap
- Claudio Ternieden, Executive Director, Water & Wastewater Equipment Manufacturers Association (WWEMA)
- Alexandra Medley, Associate Director for Antimicrobial Resistance, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Nichole Brinkman, Biologist, US Environmental Protection Agency
- Jorge Matheu, Team Lead – Impact Initiatives and Research Coordination Unit, World Health Organization
- Jen Ronholm, Associate Professor, McGill University
- Kris Johansen, Associate Director of External Relations, National Institute of Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Education (NIAMMRE)
- Steven Harris, Chair -Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology, Iowa State University
- Jolieke van Oosterwijk, Chief Scientific Officer, US Biologic
- Heather Fowler, Director, Producer and Public Health, National Pork Board
Read more about the Congress here: www.terrapinn.com/conference/antimicrobial-resistance-congress-usa/index.stm
