Aim & Scope
The Journal of Zoonotic Pathogens and One Health Policy has been established with the objective of promoting scientific knowledge and policy insight related to diseases that are transmitted between animals and humans. The journal is rooted in the One Health framework, which recognises the interconnection between the health of humans, animals, and the environment. As zoonotic diseases continue to pose a serious global health threat, the journal seeks to serve as a dedicated platform for high-quality academic research, field-based observations, and policy discussions that address the complex factors influencing zoonotic transmission and control.
Aim
The primary aim of the Journal of Zoonotic Pathogens and One Health Policy is to advance understanding of zoonotic pathogens and their impact on public health systems, veterinary practices, and environmental management. The journal supports the publication of original research, systematic reviews, field reports, and policy evaluations that contribute to disease prevention, control, and preparedness. The journal also aims to foster collaboration between researchers, clinicians, veterinarians, public health professionals, environmental scientists, and policymakers.
The journal encourages submissions that bridge the gap between theory and application. Emphasis is placed on work that can inform surveillance strategies, risk assessment models, outbreak response planning, and cross-sectoral collaboration. Studies involving practical interventions, community engagement, and interagency cooperation are of particular interest. The journal also seeks to support the development of integrated policies that reflect scientific evidence and local context.
Scope
The journal welcomes submissions on a wide range of topics related to zoonotic disease research and One Health policy. These include, but are not limited to, the following areas:
1. Clinical and Public Health Aspects
Submissions in this category may include studies of clinical diagnosis, treatment protocols, and epidemiological trends in zoonotic infections. Articles may also focus on public health preparedness, outbreak investigation, and disease surveillance.
- Emerging and re-emerging zoonotic infections
- Hospital-based case series and diagnostic challenges
- Community-level surveillance systems
- Disease reporting frameworks and early warning tools
- Integration of human and animal health data in public health strategies
2. Veterinary and Animal Health
This includes research on the role of domestic and wild animals in disease reservoirs, livestock management, and veterinary interventions aimed at reducing zoonotic transmission.
- Animal health surveillance programmes
- Biosecurity practices in farms and animal markets
- Vaccination strategies in livestock
- Field-based veterinary research on zoonotic transmission
- Animal welfare in the context of disease prevention
3. Environmental and Ecological Dynamics
Environmental changes are a key driver of zoonotic disease emergence. Articles that explore the impact of land use, biodiversity loss, and ecological disturbances on disease risk are welcomed.
- Habitat fragmentation and wildlife movement patterns
- Climate variability and vector ecology
- Deforestation and human-wildlife interface
- Waste management and contamination pathways
- Environmental monitoring for pathogen detection
4. Microbiology, Pathogenesis, and Laboratory Studies
The journal supports laboratory-based research that contributes to the understanding of pathogen biology and host responses.
- Molecular characterisation of zoonotic agents
- Host-pathogen interactions
- Antimicrobial resistance in zoonotic pathogens
- Development and validation of diagnostic tools
- Genetic and phylogenetic studies of cross-species infection
5. Health Systems, Policy, and Governance
This category includes studies that analyse how institutions manage zoonotic disease threats through regulation, financing, and intersectoral coordination.
- Evaluation of One Health policies and frameworks
- National and subnational preparedness plans
- Cross-border coordination in disease control
- Legal frameworks for zoonotic disease response
- Funding models for integrated health efforts
6. Field Implementation and Operational Research
The journal values applied research that captures the challenges and results of implementing zoonotic control programmes in various contexts.
- Community health education and behavioural interventions
- Training and capacity-building in rural or remote areas
- NGO-led programmes and outreach campaigns
- Mobile clinics and veterinary services
- Reflections on logistical and operational barriers
7. Special Populations and Vulnerable Groups
Research focusing on the impact of zoonotic diseases on specific population groups is also within scope.
- Disease burden in low-income or rural settings
- Gender-sensitive approaches to zoonotic risk
- Occupational exposure among farmers, butchers, and animal handlers
- Children and elderly populations in zoonosis-prone areas
8. Interdisciplinary and Collaborative Models
As a journal informed by the One Health perspective, we support publications that demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration across institutions and sectors.
- Joint investigations involving human and animal health authorities
- Shared databases and information systems
- Cross-sector response teams and outbreak task forces
- Examples of successful coordination across ministries or agencies
The Journal of Zoonotic Pathogens and One Health Policy encourages both qualitative and quantitative research. Manuscripts that provide comparative analysis across countries or regions are welcome, as are studies focusing on region-specific diseases or policy approaches. Submissions may be based on academic research, government reports, or collaborative initiatives involving multiple stakeholders.
While the journal upholds high standards of scientific integrity, it also recognises the value of documentation from the field. Authors working in non-academic settings are encouraged to contribute, provided that their work follows basic ethical guidelines and contributes to the understanding or management of zoonotic disease.
By publishing articles across these diverse focus areas, the journal seeks to support informed decision-making and practical improvement in global zoonotic disease control. The intended outcome is to create a space where research can contribute not only to academic knowledge but also to effective public health action.
