Prof. Jeff Wichtel, dean of the Ontario Veterinary College, contributed a commentary to the Toronto Star on why a co-ordinated human, animal and environmental health approach is needed to prevent outbreaks like COVID-19.
Wichtel noted that animals can act as vessels for many zoonotic diseases that can affect humans
He said we need to look beyond human health alone to prevent, track and mitigate diseases in animals, and take a more holistic approach that integrates humans, animals and the environment.
He ended by noting that U of G’s newly formed One Health Institute brings together experts and educators from multiple disciplines to ensure human health through improved animal health.