Infection and Drug Resistance

Integrating One Health in Infectious Disease Prevention and Control

It is increasingly recognized that the management of infectious diseases can be improved through intersectoral or interdisciplinary collaborations. One of the most prominent examples is the development of the rabies vaccine, which first demonstrated efficacy in dogs and was later adapted as post-exposure prophylaxis in humans. In 1964, Calvin Schwabe, a distinguished veterinarian and epidemiologist, coined the term “One Medicine” in response to the separation of human and veterinary medicine. This concept was later reintroduced in the 21st century and evolved into “One Health.” Following its adoption and advocacy by public health agencies, One Health is now defined as “an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of humans, animals, plants, and ecosystems.