Oral

Over the last few decades, approximately 75% of the newly (re)emerged infectious diseases of humans have originated from or through animals. The factors that are driving this phenomenon include: globalization, trade, movements and behavior of people and the remarkable adaptation of microbes. This session will discuss the convergence of human and animal health and the implications for public health today and tomorrow based on this unprecedented interface. In addition, the presentation will introduce the concept of One Health and discuss how this construct and mindset will be necessary to address the new threats to our health now being generated by the convergence. A Land Grant university will share a comprehensive distillation of current science as well as on the ground experience in taking the concept to third world situations. In addition, in the US, a major Public Health School will share their experience working with the 1890 land grand extension programs to reach minority populations through out the south. Finally, a state public health association will discuss both national efforts as well as its own efforts to reach out to citizens and policy makers to disseminate preparedness messages for emerging infectious diseases.

Session Objectives: After this session, attendees will have gained new knowledge and insight about the convergence of human and animal health, the implications of this phenomenon on public health and also understand and appreciate the need for multiple approaches including One Health to address the convergence.