Infectious Disease Training in the Agricultural Sector using a One Health Approach
Abstract
Background: Recognizing the need to prevent and respond to global health threats and promote sustainable development, the One Health approach is an integrated, unifying approach that aims to optimize the health of people, animals, and ecosystems.
Methods: Two training programs were designed, developed, and implemented for agricultural workers and agribusiness owners in Georgia under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Susan Harwood training program using a One Health approach. Training emphasized recognition, prevention, and transmission control of infectious disease agents, such as SARS-CoV-2, for all trainees and included the development of workplace infectious disease preparedness plans for agribusiness owners.
Results: Level 1 training session evaluation measured the participants’ perceptions of the training environment as well as their level of satisfaction regarding the perceived quality of the workshop and teaching. Level 2 evaluations measured the knowledge, attitudes, and practice changes trainees experienced due to the training.
Conclusion: While health, food, water, and our shared environment are all important areas with specific concerns, increasing communication and collaboration across the agricultural sector is crucial in developing lasting solutions for the advancement of planetary health.
Keywords
One Health, occupational health and safety, infectious disease, preparedness
Infectious Disease Training in the Agricultural Sector using a One Health Approach
Background: Recognizing the need to prevent and respond to global health threats and promote sustainable development, the One Health approach is an integrated, unifying approach that aims to optimize the health of people, animals, and ecosystems.
Methods: Two training programs were designed, developed, and implemented for agricultural workers and agribusiness owners in Georgia under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Susan Harwood training program using a One Health approach. Training emphasized recognition, prevention, and transmission control of infectious disease agents, such as SARS-CoV-2, for all trainees and included the development of workplace infectious disease preparedness plans for agribusiness owners.
Results: Level 1 training session evaluation measured the participants’ perceptions of the training environment as well as their level of satisfaction regarding the perceived quality of the workshop and teaching. Level 2 evaluations measured the knowledge, attitudes, and practice changes trainees experienced due to the training.
Conclusion: While health, food, water, and our shared environment are all important areas with specific concerns, increasing communication and collaboration across the agricultural sector is crucial in developing lasting solutions for the advancement of planetary health.
