Garden State Times

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture has announced the first meeting of the New Jersey One Health Task Force (OHTF), scheduled for February 21 at 11 a.m. in Trenton. This initiative aligns with National One Health Awareness Month, observed in January.

New Jersey is the first state to legislate a One Health initiative through the establishment of the OHTF under P.L. 2021, Chapter 117. The task force aims to create a strategic plan fostering communication and collaboration among physicians, veterinarians, scientific professionals, and state agencies to enhance the health and well-being of residents, animals, and the environment.

Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn emphasized the importance of this initiative: “With diseases and viruses, such as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, having the capability to travel between humans, domestic animals, livestock, and wildlife, the One Health Task Force will emphasize the connectedness of our world.” He added that New Jersey's leadership in this area reflects its commitment to health across various domains.

One Health is a concept recognizing interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health. It advocates for a collaborative approach addressing issues like zoonotic diseases, vector-borne diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), food safety and security, environmental contamination, climate change, among others.

Health Commissioner Kaitlan Baston stated: “Safeguarding public health requires an integrated approach to better understand how diseases and health risks move through our interconnected world.” She highlighted that New Jersey's task force brings together experts from multiple fields to protect communities effectively.

Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette remarked on the significance of understanding relationships between public health and environmental factors: “The One Health Task Force provides us with a unique and important opportunity to better understand the complex relationships between public health, our environment, and plant and animal health.”

Residents are encouraged to promote awareness about One Health using social media hashtags #OneHealth and #OneHealthAwarenessMonth. Additional information can be found on the One Health Commission website or by visiting www.nj.gov/agriculture/one-health.