Comprehensive One Health education: A facilitator's guide for promoting integrated health in Somalia schools
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Manual

The One Health approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, emphasizing that the health of each component is vital for overall well-being. In Somalia, pastoralists depend on their livestock for survival and live close to these animals. This approach looks at the connection between human, animal, and environmental health, helping to understand and reduce these communities' health risks.

Somalia faces a unique set of health challenges, including a high burden of infectious diseases and an increasing incidence of zoonotic infections that arise from close interactions between humans and animals. These issues are compounded by climate change, conflict, and inadequate sanitation, which further strain public health systems. This manual aims to equip students in Somalia with the knowledge and skills to understand and address these complex health challenges through a One Health lens. By covering essential topics such as human health, animal health, environmental health, zoonotic diseases, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), and antimicrobial resistance, the manual provides a comprehensive framework for students to explore how these elements are interconnected. Furthermore, it raises students' awareness of the One Health approach, encouraging them to apply its principles in their undergraduate studies and future careers, equipping them to contribute to holistic health solutions in their communities.

Through participatory lessons, interactive activities, and real-world examples, students will develop a deeper understanding of the importance of collaborative efforts in health promotion and disease prevention. By fostering awareness of the One Health approach, this manual encourages students to become informed advocates for health within their communities, ultimately contributing to the improvement of health outcomes in Somalia.

This manual is specifically designed for students in Somalia, offering a series of interconnected lessons centered on the One Health approach. The manual contains eight main lessons covering a variety of One Health topics contextualized to Somalia. Lesson 1 introduces the concept of One Health and its importance, while Lesson 2 focuses on understanding human health. Lesson 3 highlights animal health and its connection to the One Health approach, and Lesson 4 discusses environmental health. Lesson 5 delves into zoonotic diseases, their transmission, and prevention. Lesson 6 emphasizes the significance of WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) for maintaining health. Lesson 7 addresses antimicrobial resistance, and finally, Lesson 8 serves as a revision session, reinforcing key concepts from the previous lessons.

Citation

Farah I. Mumin, Yusuf Abdi Hared, Shafii Abdullahi Mohamed. 2024. Comprehensive One Health education: A facilitator's guide for promoting integrated health in Somalia schools. International Livestock Research Institute. Nairobi, Kenya.

Authors
Farah I. Mumin
Yusuf Abdi Hared
Shafii Abdullahi Mohamed
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