One Health and Dairy Farming: Why Animal Health Means Human Health

Dairy farming sustains millions of rural households in India and plays a vital role in food security, nutrition, and economic stability. However, the close and continuous interaction between humans and dairy animals increases the risk of zoonotic disease transmission. Major infections such as brucellosis, bovine tuberculosis, leptospirosis, Q fever, and anthrax continue to affect both livestock and people, particularly among farmers, veterinarians, and dairy workers. These diseases reduce animal productivity, cause reproductive losses, and pose serious public health risks through direct contact, contaminated environments, and unsafe milk consumption. Climate factors, inadequate biosecurity, and limited awareness further increase vulnerability in rural dairy systems. Adopting the One Health approach which integrates animal health, human health, and environmental management is essential for preventing disease, ensuring safe milk production, and sustaining livelihoods. Strengthened vaccination programs, surveillance, hygiene practices, and farmer education can significantly reduce risks. Healthy animals ultimately support healthy families, resilient farming systems, and national food security.