One key principle embraced by PREZODE is community engagement in pandemic prevention and response. Community surveillance is central to the prompt detection of alarming situations and the effective implementation of actions to prevent epidemics and pandemics. This role holds particular significance within the context of global change, where the emergence of zoonoses is intricately connected to climate-related health risks.

One Health requires real-time information sharing at all levels before decisions are made at higher levels. Therefore, a better understanding of local constraints is key in informing policies, fostering adoption, and building trust. Strengthening community-based health systems is crucial for preventing zoonotic disease emergence, but also to improving monitoring, response, and control of other communicable diseases as local communities serve as the starting point and key contributors to the health surveillance chain.

To pave the way for a healthier planet through a One Health approach, pathways must involve communities, experts, and political leaders. This requires targeted investments to enhance the engagement and empowerment of frontline communities. The collaborative approach is deemed cost-efficient, life-saving, and expedites response times. It advocates for bridging top-down and bottom-up approaches to prevent emerging risks and design relevant health policies aligned with the needs of affected communities.
PREZODE, drawing on the expertise of its members, champions a bottom-up approach in line with the One Health concept

Watch How researchers and communities develop a win-win partnership in PREZODE.