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One Health
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The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has published two new case studies that showcase how the One Health approach can be translated into practical action at national and local levels. Featuring Bhutan and Japan’s Fukuoka Prefecture, the publications are part of WOAH’s Implementing One Health: Country Experiences and Lessons Learnt series, which highlights real-world examples of collaboration across animal, human and environmental health sectors.
The Bhutan case study explores the country’s efforts to strengthen coordination across sectors to address zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), food safety challenges and environmental health threats. Recognising its vulnerability to emerging and re-emerging diseases, Bhutan formalised its One Health approach through the Bhutan One Health Strategic Plan and established governance mechanisms that bring together public health, animal health, environmental authorities, academia and international partners.
The publication highlights progress in areas including disease surveillance, outbreak response, laboratory capacity and workforce development. It also describes Bhutan’s experience in controlling priority zoonoses, conducting joint risk assessments and simulation exercises, and strengthening field epidemiology training to improve preparedness and coordination across sectors.
Among the key lessons identified are the value of institutionalised governance, investment in workforce development and the importance of regular multisectoral collaboration to improve preparedness for health threats at the human-animal-environment interface
The second case study focuses on Fukuoka Prefecture in western Japan and its efforts to advance One Health at the sub-national level. Building on its long-standing commitment to the One Health concept, Fukuoka adopted Japan’s first One Health Promotion Basic Ordinance in 2020 and subsequently developed a comprehensive One Health Action Plan.
The case study outlines how the prefecture is addressing interconnected challenges including zoonotic diseases, AMR, environmental protection, animal welfare and human well-being. It highlights initiatives such as the establishment of a dedicated One Health General Promotion Division, the development of Japan’s first One Health Center, educational programmes, public awareness activities, and partnerships with academic institutions, professional associations and the private sector.
Fukuoka’s experience demonstrates how legislation, public engagement and cross-sector collaboration can support the implementation of One Health principles at the local level while creating opportunities for long-term participation by communities, businesses and health professionals.
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Although implemented in different contexts, the two case studies illustrate a common principle: effective prevention and preparedness depend on collaboration across sectors. Bhutan’s experience highlights the importance of coordinated governance and surveillance systems, while Fukuoka demonstrates how local leadership, education and community engagement can help operationalise One Health objectives.
For veterinarians, Veterinary Services, animal health practitioners and students, these experiences provide practical examples of how the profession contributes to addressing shared challenges such as zoonotic diseases, AMR and environmental change. They also demonstrate the value of strengthening links between animal, human and environmental health to support resilient health systems and more effective disease prevention.
The two publications form part of WOAH’s efforts to document and share implementation experiences that can inform and inspire One Health action across regions and sectors.
