ISLAMABAD: Health experts and senior government officials underscored the urgent need for a unified One Health approach to address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and to enhance Pakistan’s preparedness for disease outbreaks and future pandemics.
The call was made during a high-level policy dialogue on “Antimicrobial Resistance and One Health Approach” convened by the Health Services Academy (HSA).
Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Syed Mustafa Kamal, who attended the event as chief guest, said antimicrobial resistance poses a serious risk to outbreak control and pandemic preparedness.
He stressed that unchecked and inappropriate use of antibiotics across human, animal and environmental sectors weakens health systems and compromises the country’s ability to respond effectively to emerging health threats.
He emphasized the need for a coordinated One Health framework supported by strong surveillance mechanisms and effective regulation of antibiotic use.
Vice Chancellor Health Services Academy Prof Dr Shahzad Ali Khan highlighted the importance of multisectoral collaboration, noting that AMR cannot be addressed by the health sector alone. He said HSA is actively working to strengthen the One Health agenda through workforce development, research, and improved institutional coordination among relevant sectors.
National Coordinator One Health Prof Dr Tariq Mahmood Ali described AMR as an ongoing global health and economic crisis, warning that delays in action would increase healthcare costs, prolong illnesses, and lead to preventable deaths. He stressed that sustained investment in One Health systems is essential to ensure effective prevention, early detection and timely response to AMR and other health emergencies.
Participants representing the human health, animal health, environmental and agriculture sectors agreed on the need for collective and coordinated action. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening national efforts against antimicrobial resistance and enhancing Pakistan’s overall pandemic preparedness through an integrated One Health approach.
