One Health diagnostics at the human–animal–environment interface: a structured narrative review of cross-sector collaboration, capacity building, and technological innovations

Background

Zoonotic diseases at the human–animal–environment interface pose an increasing global health threat, necessitating integrated diagnostic strategies under the One Health framework.

Methodology

This structured narrative review synthesizes evidence linking One Health diagnostics to cross-sectoral collaboration, diagnostic capacity strengthening, data sharing, preparedness, and emerging technological innovations. Predefined search terms were used to conduct a targeted literature search in Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science (WOS) to identify relevant literature on One Health diagnostics, zoonotic disease surveillance, pathogen detection, diagnostic preparedness, laboratory systems, governance, and emerging technologies. Studies considered eligible were research articles, reviews, case studies, policy documents, technical reports, and organizational guidelines published in English between 2010 and 2026. The literature was reviewed and summarized thematically across the following domains: laboratory systems for veterinary and public health, integrated surveillance, low-resource settings, technological innovation, data interoperability, and diagnostic preparedness.

Findings

The findings indicate that effective One Health diagnostics rely on coordinated efforts among the veterinary, public health, and environmental sectors, supported by international organizations and integrated surveillance systems. Technological advancements, including polymerase chain reaction, next-generation sequencing, metagenomics, artificial intelligence, geographic information systems, mobile health tools, biosensors, and point-of-care testing, have improved pathogen detection, real-time monitoring, field diagnostics, and outbreak prediction. However, major challenges persist, including inadequate adherence to standardized data-sharing principles, fragmented surveillance systems, limited infrastructure in low-resource settings, and insufficient interdisciplinary integration. Case studies of SARS, Ebola, Hendra virus, and COVID-19 demonstrate the practical benefits of collaborative approaches while also highlighting systemic barriers to implementation.

Conclusion

This review highlights the need for improvements in governance, standardized data-sharing frameworks, sustainable investment in diagnostic capacity, and better integration of new technologies into surveillance systems. Adopting a One Health approach to diagnostics research will require coordination to achieve meaningful impact through policy innovation, global collaboration, laboratory strengthening, and enhanced capacity for the detection, response, and prevention of zoonotic and emerging infectious diseases.