Economics of One Health, "Synergizing economic forces: Strategies for sustainable development” Kenyan case study

Kenya grapples with the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, making the One Health approach crucial. This Kenya Red Cross (KRCS) case study, supported by IFRC and USAID, explores the economic benefits of adopting this holistic health strategy. Government and development partners prioritize capacity building, surveillance, and community engagement. KRCS, a key One Health stakeholder, has trained 261 community health assistants , 126 animal health assistants, 2,326 community health promoters, 16 journalists, and 10,800 students and teachers in Epidemic Preparedness and Response in Communities (EPiC) and community-based surveillance. These trainings that adopts a One Health approach has facilitated early detection and action against health threats, preserving lives and livelihoods. The trained health promoters and sensitized communities ensure timely reporting and coordinated responses to zoonotic disease outbreaks. In the year 2023, community health promoters reported 18 animal anthrax alerts, 13 of which were confirmed cases. This triggered the government to conduct a targeted anthrax ring vaccination campaign, reaching 28,221 cattle. With anthrax vaccines costing USD 3 per dose and each cattle valued at USD 450, the intervention cost approximately USD 8,652, safeguarding a herd worth an estimated USD 12,699,450. These efforts highlight the economic and health advantages of the One Health approach in addressing zoonotic diseases and enhancing community resilience.