Health Services Academy, in collaboration with Ayub Medical College Abbottabad, organised a one-day advocacy seminar under the One Health Workforce Development & Coordination for Pandemic Readiness Project to strengthen Pakistan’s capacity against emerging infectious threats. The meeting brought together public health experts, academicians, environmental scientists, food safety authorities, healthcare professionals and policymakers to discuss shared risks and joint solutions.
Speakers examined antimicrobial resistance, infection prevention practices, food safety measures, climate-sensitive diseases and broader pandemic preparedness. Presentations and discussions focused on improving surveillance, laboratory networks and risk communication so that responses across human, animal and environmental health are faster and more effective.
The seminar reinforced that a coordinated One Health approach is essential for managing outbreaks and limiting AMR in Pakistan. Participants highlighted the need for integrated training, data sharing between sectors and stronger policy coordination to reduce vulnerabilities at the human-animal-environment interface, particularly in regions such as Abbottabad.
Organisers noted that the One Health Workforce Development & Coordination for Pandemic Readiness Project will continue to support capacity building, intersectoral collaboration and practical steps to ensure rapid detection and response to emerging infectious diseases across Pakistan.
