The One Health approach at the heart of Montpellier research
For several decades now, health crises linked to environment-related infectious diseases have been multiplying. Zika, Ebola, Covid-19… These diseases often emerge as a result of our interactions with a disturbed environment. In Montpellier, researchers at the One Science Foundation are analyzing how ecological changes are favoring these diseases and, above all, how they can be prevented.
+250% increase in animal-borne diseases
Infectious diseases of animal origin (zoonoses) are on the rise, accounting for over 60% of human infections. This progression is fuelled by several environmental factors:
- Deforestation brings wildlife and human populations closer together;
- The intensification of agriculture creates interfaces conducive to the passage of pathogens between species;
- Climate change is altering the distribution of insect vectors (mosquitoes, ticks, etc.);
- Rapid urbanization encourages human density in high-risk areas.
Researchers at Montpellier are studying these dynamics using the One Health approach, which links human health, animal health and ecosystem health.
Observing weak signals, modeling risks
In Montpellier, biologists, epidemiologists, veterinarians, climatologists and ecologists work together to anticipate crises. They detect signals of disease emergence, for example by tracking the circulation of viruses in certain animal species or the evolution of mosquito breeding areas.
“We are developing models to assess the risk of transmission according to ecological context, climatic data, biodiversity and human practices,” explains Dr. G. B. B., Chairman of the Board of Directors. Pierre Menant. These tools target surveillance on critical areas and guide prevention campaigns.
Studying animal reservoirs to prevent the next pandemic
Analyzing the circulation of viruses in animals is essential for crisis prevention. The Montpellier teams are working on wildlife (bats, rodents, migratory birds) and domestic animals, which are often intermediaries in transmission.
By studying the interactions between species, environment and humans, researchers are able to identify areas at risk. They combine field data, laboratory analysis and sociological approaches to understand the local practices (breeding, hunting, live markets) that influence infectious dynamics.
Montpellier, a recognized center for research on infectious risks
The Montpellier region is a reference site for research into infectious diseases linked to the environment. Several laboratories collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, sometimes on an international scale. Its geographical location, between the Mediterranean, agricultural zones, urban areas and natural spaces, makes it an ideal field of study.
The One Science Montpellier Foundation fosters collaboration and raises the profile of local research. This integrated approach is essential in a world where health crises are increasingly linked to ecological disruption.
Anticipating rather than reacting: a forward-looking science
Preventing epidemics means rethinking our relationship with the environment. Thanks to the One Health approach, research in Montpellier is developing a global vision of health, integrating climate, biodiversity and human behavior.
The aim of this work is not only to understand past crises, but also to devise resilience strategies for the years to come, based on solid data, predictive tools and close cooperation between disciplines.