‘One Health’ Approach Recognizes the Interconnectedness of Human, Animal, and Environmental Health
A significant gathering aimed at addressing the urgent need for innovation and action in combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) – the UAE-UK One Health AMR Biosecurity Consortium Meeting, was hosted by Khalifa University. The meeting brought together speakers, professionals, and stakeholders from the UAE, the UK, and the wider region to discuss strategies for tackling AMR through the ‘One Health’ approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, agriculture and water sectors, and environmental health.
Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University, gave the welcome speech and emphasized the significance of hosting the consortium meeting, showcasing the trust and recognition placed in Khalifa University’s expertise and capabilities in convening specialists and stakeholders from multiple sectors.
The meeting took stock of the progress made since the first gathering in March 2023 and explored possibilities for international collaboration, particularly in utilizing big data genomic approaches for molecular epidemiology.
Dame Sally Davis, the UK Special Envoy on AMR, delivered a video address, providing valuable perspectives on the global context of AMR and emphasizing the need for immediate action. Dr. Najiba Abdulrazzaq, Co-Chair, UAE National Higher Committee on AMR, highlighted the remarkable efforts undertaken by the UAE in combating AMR and showcased the collaborations established through the National AMR Action Plan.
Dr. Will Le Quesne from the Centre for Environment, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science provided an introduction to the UAE-UK One Health AMR Biosecurity Consortium, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange between the two countries. Dr. Dean Everett, Professor in Infectious Diseases and Lead, Khalifa University’s Infection Research Unit, presented a research vision for the UAE-UK Consortium, outlining collective aspirations and ambitions for the future.
Other speakers discussed the AMR management and surveillance in medical settings, the human population, veterinary and agriculture sectors including Dr. Jens Thomsen, Chair, UAE National Sub-Committee for AMR surveillance, Dr. Ghada Ahmed Abdel Wahab from the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Security Agency, and Professor Ed Feil from Bath University.
Alisha Roy
Science Writer
18 December 2023
