“One Health” provides a coordinated approach to counter emerging infectious disease threats at the interface of animal, human and environment health. Universities play a key role in an integrated One Health approach by bringing together disciplines such as medicine, veterinary medicine, public health, and environmental and ecosystem health to more effectively address emerging zoonotic infectious disease challenges. Earlier this week, with USAID support, the Southeast Asia One Health University Network (SEAOHUN) held its 2018 International Conference at Hanoi Medical University, which was attended by more than 300 participants from 12 countries. The theme of the conference was “One Health Academic Challenges: Preparing Today’s Workforce to Combat Tomorrow’s Infectious Diseases” and offered technical presentations, posters, and discussions. The conference also provided an opportunity for faculty, students, and researchers from academic institutions in Africa and Asia, to share experiences and best practices. USAID/Vietnam Mission Director Michael Greene provided opening remarks and USAID/Washington Emerging Threats Unit Director Dr. Dennis Carroll was the keynote speaker at the conference.

So What? Through high level scientific engagement and learning, USAID strengthens the human resource capacity of the future One Health workforce and increases collaboration among relevant sectors and countries in preventing and responding to infectious disease threats.