In brief
Weqaa announced on One Health Day a new prevention and response system based on the One Health concept. The system focuses on protecting plant, animal and human health, targeting zoonotic disease prevention, antimicrobial resistance, and food safety while supporting national food security and Vision 2030. It involves early warning, vector control, and a multisectoral technical committee to raise awareness and coordinate efforts.
On One Health Day, the Saudi National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases (Weqaa) announced a new prevention and response system that ties together plant, animal and human health.
Weqaa says the system will work to curb zoonotic diseases, stop antimicrobial resistance and keep food safe, all parts of a strategy called One Health.
The center linked the initiative to Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to build a sustainable and secure food supply for the country.
The One Health idea recognizes that human, animal and plant health are connected and that problems in one area can spill over into the others.
In its effort, Weqaa chairs a One Health Technical Committee that brings doctors, veterinarians, farmers and scientists together to share information and plan actions.
The program includes animal disease control programs and surveillance of insects that spread disease, all built on structured, nationwide plans.
Weqaa also plans early‑warning systems that can alert authorities before a disease spreads, and it will run rapid response teams to deal with outbreaks quickly.
Part of the plan is to raise awareness among farmers, livestock breeders, medical professionals and the general public so they can adopt safer practices and help protect their own safety.
By linking all the parts of the ecosystem, Weqaa hopes to reduce health risks, protect food supplies and keep the environment safe for future generations.
