Vector-borne diseases from the perspective of the “One Health” approach

Abstract

Introduction: Population growth, demand for resources, mobility of people and animals, climate change, deterioration of habitats, and loss of biodiversity are factors that must be considered when moving towards a new perception of health. The "One Health" approach implies the interrelationship between the health of people, animals, and the environment (care of ecosystems).

Objective: To examine the interconnection between the “One Health” approach and vector-borne diseases.

Methods: A literature review of original and review articles published in English and Spanish on the subject from 1980 to 2021.

Analysis and synthesis of information: It describes elements regarding ecosystems and how human activities, climate change, and the spread of emerging zoonoses threaten them. It analyzes evidence of the impacts of climate change on human and environmental health with an emphasis on vector-borne diseases, mainly malaria and arbovirosis, as well as rodent-borne diseases.

Conclusions: It is essential to address the surveillance and control of vector-borne diseases in a comprehensive and multi-disciplinary manner and to strengthen territorial coordination by prioritizing the intersectionality among the institutions involved in these activities. This strategy takes into account and implies the "One Health" approach. It is also important to increase studies on the relationship between climate and vectors, which will allow implementing preventive interventions in populations at risk.