'I think if we have healthy animals we'll have healthy people' - A qualitative study exploring the perceptions of zoonotic diseases and the One Health concept among veterinarians and medical doctors in Stockholm, Sweden

Abstract

Introduction Zoonotic diseases and One Health are two important factors of public health, with the increase of zoonotic disease transmission globally and the suggested need for a transdisciplinary approach. The One Health concept is an area where many fields of expertise work together to achieve healthy people, animals and environment. Many studies have been done on the topic, but not many qualitative studies regarding the perception of zoonotic diseases and One Health, in high- income settings.  This study aims to explore the differences in perceptions of primary care and emergency physicians and veterinarians in Stockholm, Sweden, regarding zoonotic disease and the One Health concept.  Methods  Six veterinarians and six medical doctors in Stockholm, Sweden, were interviewed in spring of 2018, through in- depth interviews. Thematic analysis was used.  Findings  It is apparent that the medical doctors are unaware about the One Health concept and do not include animal contact frequently in their diagnostic history taking. This differs to the veterinarians who all appeared concerned about zoonotic diseases and how to work towards One Health. These findings seem to be due to the medical doctors feeling they lack training in zoonotic diseases and One Health.  Conclusion  Medical doctors feel they lack training in zoonotic disease transmission and One Health. It would be helpful to look deeper into the medical curriculum of Swedish medical schools and determine the content of zoonoses and One Health to allow for changes. This would be important to achieve a transdisciplinary approach when dealing with zoonotic diseases