The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended Indonesia for its leadership in mitigating the risks of priority zoonotic diseases. This recognition, announced on World Health Day 2026, highlights the country’s commitment to a “One Health” approach.
The One Health initiative focuses on the integration of human, animal, and environmental health systems. This strategic alignment is designed to improve the prevention of and response to disease outbreaks.
The Global Threat of Zoonoses
Zoonotic diseases, which spread between animals and humans, remain a significant threat to global health. According to the WHO, more than 60 percent of known infectious diseases and up to 75 percent of emerging diseases originate from animals.
As the world’s largest archipelago, Indonesia faces specific vulnerabilities. These include risks linked to environmental changes, climate-related disasters, and the close interaction between ecosystems, animals, and human communities.
Multisectoral Coordination in Action
Indonesia has strengthened collaboration across the veterinary, agriculture, environmental, and health sectors. This coordination aims to enhance emergency response systems, prevention, and surveillance.
The WHO noted that this multisectoral approach has improved early detection capabilities. These improvements are particularly evident in regions with high exposure to zoonotic threats.
Current efforts are focused on priority diseases, including rabies, anthrax, leptospirosis, and avian influenza. In 2025, the WHO supported integrated avian influenza surveillance across five provinces, utilizing traditional poultry markets as early warning sites.
Additional measures include the implementation of community awareness programs and improved surveillance for leptospirosis in regions prone to flooding. The government has also strengthened monitoring systems and training for health workers to mitigate the impact of rabies and anthrax.
Regional and Global Implications
Dr. N. Paranietharan, WHO Representative to Indonesia, stated that the country is demonstrating how coordinated action across multiple sectors can effectively reduce everyday risks from zoonotic diseases.
He emphasized that this collaboration is protecting vulnerable communities, improving overall preparedness, and building more resilient health systems.
Indonesia’s progress reflects a broader global and regional trend toward the One Health approach as nations face biodiversity loss and climate-related health risks. The WHO noted that Indonesia continues to hold a leadership role in global health discussions and within ASEAN regarding health security and pandemic preparedness.
Looking ahead, this model may serve as a template for other nations in the region. Indonesia could potentially expand its surveillance pilots to more provinces or further integrate its environmental monitoring to better anticipate emerging threats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the One Health approach?
It is a strategy that integrates human, animal, and environmental health systems to better prevent and respond to disease outbreaks.
Which specific diseases is Indonesia prioritizing?
The country’s One Health efforts are currently focusing on avian influenza, rabies, anthrax, and leptospirosis.
How was avian influenza monitored in 2025?
The WHO supported integrated surveillance in five provinces, where traditional poultry markets were used as critical early warning sites.
How do you think integrated health systems could change the way we prepare for future outbreaks?
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