The COVID-19 pandemic was a wake-up call. It showed us just how vulnerable we are to diseases that jump from animals to humans, known as zoonotic diseases. As the world becomes more interconnected, the risk of these diseases spreading is higher than ever before. From SARS to Ebola and COVID-19, zoonotic diseases have left a devastating mark on human health and economies. And with new threats constantly emerging, preventing future outbreaks is more critical than ever.
But here’s the thing: in today’s political and global health climate, the future of preventing these outbreaks is uncertain. As countries pull away from international cooperation and the dynamics of global health shift, the fight against zoonotic diseases faces new challenges. So, how do we keep the next pandemic at bay, when the world itself is in a state of flux?
The Growing Danger of Zoonotic Diseases
Zoonotic diseases are not new, but their threat is growing. These diseases account for 60% of new infectious diseases worldwide, and many of the most dangerous outbreaks in history, like HIV, Ebola, and COVID-19, came from animals. As humans continue to invade wildlife habitats, expand agriculture, and grow cities, the chances of these diseases jumping from animals to humans increase. The drivers of these outbreaks are complex — including climate change, the wildlife trade, and land destruction. But one thing is clear: the more we interfere with nature, the more we risk creating the perfect storm for a new disease to emerge.
The One Health Approach: A Crucial Solution
So, how do we prevent zoonotic diseases in this unpredictable world? Enter the One Health approach. One Health is a game-changing strategy that recognizes how human health, animal health, and environmental health are all connected. It’s a holistic way to tackle diseases by bringing together experts from human medicine, veterinary science, and environmental science. By working together, these sectors can monitor diseases at the animal-human-environment interface, detect outbreaks earlier, and respond more effectively.
Despite its potential, the One Health approach is still not fully implemented around the world. Many countries struggle to link their health systems together — especially in places where resources are limited. Without proper coordination, we risk missing early warning signs and failing to control outbreaks before they spiral out of control. Making One Health a global standard is essential, but it’s easier said than done.
Political Shifts and Global Health Challenges
The US’s recent decisions — including the possible withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) — make the future of global health even more uncertain. As one of the largest contributors to the WHO, the US’s exit would leave a significant funding gap. This would affect health programs crucial for fighting diseases like polio, malaria, and HIV, particularly in low-income countries that rely on WHO support. The WHO plays a vital role in coordinating international health efforts, and without the US, other countries, such as China, may step into the leadership void, changing the direction of global health efforts in ways that may not benefit everyone.
Additionally, if the US pulls back from global health organizations, other countries may follow suit, putting international cooperation at risk. As more nations prioritize domestic issues over international health efforts, our ability to prevent future zoonotic outbreaks will weaken. These geopolitical shifts highlight the need for stronger international partnerships, especially as health threats do not respect borders.
Strengthening Global Health Cooperation
While these challenges are daunting, there are steps we can take to ensure better preparedness for future outbreaks. First and foremost, global cooperation is crucial. Countries need to work together to implement the One Health approach. This means improving surveillance systems that integrate data from human, animal, and environmental health sectors. With better coordination, countries can spot diseases early and act quickly to stop their spread.
Second, supporting organizations like the WHO is essential. Even if the US or other countries step back, the WHO’s role in global health is irreplaceable. It facilitates research, coordinates responses during emergencies, and ensures that resources are available where they are needed most. Without robust international organizations leading the charge, the global community would be much less prepared to handle the next zoonotic threat.
Investing in Research and Development
Next, we need to double down on research and development. One of the biggest obstacles to fighting zoonotic diseases is the lack of tools — vaccines, diagnostic tests, and treatments. The world must invest in developing these tools, especially ones that can be distributed quickly in times of crisis. However, access to these innovations must be equitable. Intellectual property rights and vaccine distribution issues must be tackled head-on to ensure that lifesaving treatments are available to all, especially in lower-income countries.
Tackling the Root Causes of Zoonotic Diseases
Preventing zoonotic diseases isn’t just about reacting to outbreaks; it’s also about addressing the root causes. Deforestation, climate change, and unsustainable agriculture all contribute to the spread of diseases. By protecting wildlife habitats, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable farming practices, we can reduce the chances of zoonotic diseases emerging in the first place. These long-term efforts are key to building a more resilient global health system.
The Road Ahead: A Shared Responsibility
The future of preventing zoonotic disease outbreaks will depend on collaboration — collaboration between countries, sectors, and individuals. The fight against zoonotic diseases is not just the responsibility of one government, one organization, or one community. It requires a global, collective effort.
As the world faces growing health uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to commit to proactive, integrated, and equitable solutions. The One Health approach offers the best chance we have at preventing the next pandemic, but it will only succeed if countries work together. By strengthening surveillance, supporting global health organizations, investing in research and development, and addressing environmental factors, we can create a safer, healthier world.
The world may be uncertain, but we can take steps to reduce that uncertainty and protect our future from the next zoonotic disease outbreak. The question is: Will we rise to the challenge? The time to act is now.
Jan loves Wildlife and Animals and is one of the founders of Animals Around The Globe. He holds an MSc in Finance & Economics and is a passionate PADI Open Water Diver. His favorite animals are Mountain Gorillas, Tigers, and Great White Sharks. He lived in South Africa, Germany, the USA, Ireland, Italy, China, and Australia. Before AATG, Jan worked for Google, Axel Springer, BMW and others.
