Welcome to a new segment called ‘One Health Heroes.’ This segment highlights the interconnectedness between human, animal, and environmental health and the crucial role of public health veterinarians. Special guest Dr. Mandy Sorensen, communication specialist with the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians (AAFSPHV) will join bimonthly for news updates. Topics include zoonotic diseases, food safety, emerging health threats, and the the work being done in veterinary public health. This recurring segment aims to provide timely, evidence-based information for both pet owners and veterinary professionals.
Introducing One Health Heroes: Bridging Human, Animal, and Environmental Health
Welcome to an engaging exploration of the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. This blog post introduces the new podcast segment “One Health Heroes,” a dedicated space for understanding how veterinarians, doctors, and scientists collaborate in protecting all living things by exploring current updates on public health and food safety.
Understanding One Health
In this segment, the concept of “One Health” is vital. It encapsulates the idea that the health of people, animals, and the environment are interconnected. When one of these is unhealthy, the others may be affected. Our discussions will delve deep into how diseases can spread across species, pollution’s impact on health, and the mutual benefits of maintaining a healthy environment.
Insight from Experts
Joining the conversation is Dr. Mandy Sorenson, a communication specialist from the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians. With her background in veterinary medicine and a Master’s in Public Health, Dr. Sorenson offers an in-depth view of the current landscape of One Health.
The Role of Public Health Veterinarians
Public health veterinarians occupy crucial roles in society, ensuring the safety of our food supply, preventing zoonotic diseases like rabies and avian influenza, and monitoring emerging health threats. Their work ranges from research and academic contributions to roles in regulatory bodies ensuring food and drugs’ safety in both animals and humans.
Where They Work
These veterinarians are found across various domains, including federal agencies like the USDA, FDA, and CDC. They also serve in state departments, the food industry, epidemiology, academia, and even roles in military and disaster response.
The Importance of Accurate Information
Our mission with this segment is to bring forward evidence-based, unbiased information. Most of our insights are sourced from peer-reviewed literature, governmental and academic guidance, and international organizations.
Staying Informed
Listeners can anticipate expert interviews, case studies, and news breakdowns related to veterinary public health. For those with a professional interest, the AAFSPHV’s bi-monthly newsletter is a critical resource, offering journal articles, breaking news, and continuing education opportunities.
Relevance to Pet Owners
Understanding public health matters is crucial for pet owners. For instance, the avian influenza outbreak has had devastating impacts, emphasizing the need for vigilance and information sharing to prevent zoonotic diseases and ensure the safety of our furry companions.
Engage with Us
We invite everyone to subscribe to our podcast and follow us on social media for updates. Whether you have questions, feedback, or topic suggestions, your involvement is invaluable to our community.
July 1, 2025: Mosquito-Borne Threats You Should Know About
Summer is here—and with it comes an increase in mosquito activity. But the bites aren’t just itchy—they can carry serious diseases that affect people, pets, livestock, and wildlife. In this episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know, host Dr. Brittany Lancellotti is joined by two One Health experts to break down the latest mosquito-borne disease risks and how a collaborative approach to public health helps protect us all.
What’s Buzzing: Mosquito-Borne Disease Updates
Dr. Laura Rothfeldt, Arkansas State Public Health Veterinarian, outlines key mosquito-borne threats currently circulating in the U.S. and beyond:
1. West Nile Virus (WNV)
Found throughout most of the U.S.
Transmitted by mosquitoes from birds to humans and horses
Can cause serious illness, especially in older adults or immunocompromised people
2. Lesser-Known But Concerning Viruses
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE): Often fatal in horses and dangerous in people; more common in the Gulf and Atlantic coastal states
Cache Valley Virus: Affects sheep and goats, can cause fetal abnormalities and abortions; rarely diagnosed in people, but likely underreported
Jamestown Canyon & St. Louis Encephalitis Viruses: Circulating in certain regions with unknown true impact
We need more surveillance in both animals and mosquitoes to understand the full scope of these diseases.
Global Threats Reaching Home
3. Dengue Outbreak in Puerto Rico & the Caribbean
The world’s most widespread mosquito-borne virus
Travelers returning to the mainland U.S. can unknowingly bring dengue back
Local transmission is already occurring in Florida, California, and Arizona
4. Oropouche Virus
Emerging virus in South America and Cuba
Transmitted by biting midges and possibly mosquitoes
Cases linked to potential birth defects similar to Zika
Ongoing investigation by the CDC’s emergency response team
Don’t Forget About Pets: Heartworm Disease
Your pets are also at risk!
Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes and primarily affects dogs (though cats and humans can be incidentally exposed)
Worms live in the heart and lungs
Prevention is key—monthly pills, topical treatments, or long-acting injections can stop larvae from developing into dangerous adults
“The treatment is hard. Prevention is safe, easy, and life-saving.”
One Health Action Steps for Summer
Pet owners and public health allies can take the following steps:
Eliminate standing water around your home (even bottle caps can breed mosquitoes!)
Use EPA-registered insect repellents and protective clothing outdoors
Keep pets on heartworm prevention year-round in high-risk areas
Stay informed with updates from veterinary and public health agencies
June 15, 2025: Avian Influenza and vaccines, Tularemia, Screwworm, and the Power of Prevention
In a new episode of One Health Heroes, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti is joined by Dr. Mandy Sorenson, communications specialist with the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians. Together, they break down the latest developments in highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), tularemia risks in pets and people, and how public health veterinary professionals are vital in protecting animal and human populations.
The Avian Flu Crisis: 6 Million Birds Recently Lost
A catastrophic HPAI outbreak at an Arizona egg production facility resulted in the loss of 6 million layer hens—95% of their flock. This tragic event is more than just an agricultural loss; it affects regional egg supply, employment, and biosecurity.
Why aren’t we vaccinating poultry yet?
Trade barriers: Countries often ban imports from vaccinated flocks.
Logistics: Mass poultry vaccination, especially for broilers raised for only 5–6 weeks, is complex.
Vaccine coverage: The Zoetis H5N2 vaccine has conditional USDA approval, but the circulating strain is H5N1.
The Ongoing Risks of Raw Milk
A recent study found that H5N1 remains infective:
For over 24 hours at room temperature
For up to a week when refrigerated
Pasteurization effectively neutralizes the virus and drastically reduces foodborne illness risk. Avoid raw milk for the safety of both humans and pets.
More from the CDC:
Raw Milk – What You Need to Know
Tularemia: A Rare but Serious Tick-Borne Threat
Tularemia is a bacterial zoonotic disease transmitted by ticks, deer flies, and infected animals. Though rare, it’s considered a potential bioterrorism agent due to its infectivity.
Geographic hotspots:
Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma report most U.S. cases.
Veterinarians and pet owners in tick-prone areas should remain alert.
Symptoms in pets and people may include:
Fever, lethargy, enlarged lymph nodes
Skin ulcers or abscesses
Severe pneumonia if inhaled
Tick control is key. Monthly prevention for pets and protective clothing for people can reduce risk.
Check tick prevalence in your area: CAPC Tick Maps
USDA Cuts & One Health Challenges
In a year marked by budget cuts, over 1,300 USDA-APHIS positions were eliminated, impacting vital disease surveillance operations. These professionals are instrumental in:
Genotyping avian flu strains
Monitoring screwworm outbreaks
Coordinating rapid response to zoonotic threats
Despite the cuts, One Health Heroes continue to uphold biosecurity and animal welfare under increasingly difficult conditions.
Purdue’s Rapid Test Breakthrough: Hope on the Horizon
The “Scratching the Itch” segment features a revolutionary development: Purdue’s new cage-side test for avian influenza. The test uses a nasal swab, water bath, and paper readout—offering fast, affordable detection.
Benefits:
Improved quarantine speed
Reduced viral spread
Supports farm-level disease containment
More info: Purdue Rapid Test News
June 1, 2025 - Alpha Gal Syndrome, Companion Animal Parasite Council 2025 Updates, Avian Influenza, Screwworm
Have you ever heard of Alpha-Gal Syndrome? If not, you’re not alone—but this tick-related allergy is becoming increasingly recognized in the southeastern United States and beyond, and it’s one of many reasons why understanding the connections between animals, humans, and the environment is so crucial.
In the latest episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know, One Health Heroes, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti is joined by Dr. Mandy Sorensen, communications specialist for the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians (AAFSPHV), and Dr. Laura Rothfeldt, the State Public Health Veterinarian for Arkansas. Together, they unpack a range of emerging health issues at the intersection of public and animal health.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Update
Dr. Sorensen discusses ongoing cases and the experimental vaccine trials for cattle aimed at combating this disease. The potential for viral mutations and implications for global poultry trade raise concerns, particularly as cases emerge in both Arizona and Brazil. Brazil is the world’s largest exporter of poultry, highlighting the global risk of this disease.
Screwworm Update: A Potentially Economically Devastating Disease
Screwworm may sound like something from the history books, but it’s still an active threat. These parasitic flies lay eggs in wounds and mucous membranes, and the larvae feed on living tissue. Although the U.S. eradicated screwworm decades ago, recent human cases imported from South America and its proximity to the southern border are raising red flags.
Dr. Sorensen highlighted efforts in Texas to build a sterile fly facility, which would support prevention by releasing infertile males to reduce wild populations. Dr. Rothfeldt discussed a case involving a traveler returning from South America with a screwworm-infested surgical wound—a stark reminder that this pest is just one flight away.
Screwworm can devastate livestock populations and has caused human fatalities in Central and South America. Prevention is critical to protect agriculture, animal welfare, and human health.
2025 CAPC Forecast: Parasites on the Move
Each year, the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) releases a forecast for vector-borne diseases, and the 2025 report comes with concerning trends:
Ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease, and anaplasmosis are continuing to spread beyond traditional regions, thanks in part to climate change and shifting tick habitats.
Heartworm disease, though not transmissible to humans, is a deadly parasitic threat to dogs that is predicted to expand into new areas.
The CAPC forecast maps show striking shifts in disease hotspots and highlight the need for year-round parasite prevention—even in areas where risk was once low. These resources are not just for veterinarians—pet owners are encouraged to explore them to better protect their animals and families.
What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?
Alpha-Gal Syndrome is an allergy to a sugar molecule (galactose-α-1,3-galactose) found in most mammals, triggered by the bite of a Lone Star tick. Unlike most food allergies, it causes delayed allergic reactions—often hours after eating red meat or gelatin-containing products. The symptoms range from abdominal pain and rashes to severe anaphylaxis.
While Alpha-Gal Syndrome cannot affect pets, dogs and cats can carry ticks indoors, putting humans at risk. This makes flea and tick prevention a vital One Health measure—protecting animals and people.
Dr. Rothfeldt shared that Alpha-Gal Syndrome is being diagnosed in Arkansas more frequently than any other tick-borne illness, yet it remains largely under-recognized, even by some healthcare providers.
Why One Health Matters—Now More Than Ever
This episode exemplifies the One Health approach: understanding that human, animal, and environmental health are interconnected. Whether it’s:
Alpha-Gal Syndrome linked to tick bites,
Screwworm threatening livestock and travelers,
or heartworm and tick-borne illnesses affecting pets and people alike…
…these challenges show why collaboration between veterinarians, doctors, public health officials, and informed pet owners is essential.
May 15, 2025 - Screwworm, Valley Fever expert Dr. Jane Sykes, Avian Influenza
Valley Fever, also known as coccidioidomycosis, is gaining national attention—not just in human health circles but also in the veterinary world. On this One Health Heroes episode of Your Vet Wants You to Know, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti is joined by two leading experts in public and animal health: Dr. Jane Sykes, a renowned infectious disease specialist and One Health researcher from UC Davis and Dr. Mandy Sorenson, Communication Specialist with the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians.
Together, they tackle the latest research on Valley Fever, highly pathogenic avian influenza, and the growing concern about New World Screwworm—all with practical takeaways for pet owners and veterinarians.
What is Valley Fever?
Valley Fever is caused by a fungus (Coccidioides) found in dry, dusty soil, especially in the southwestern United States. People and animals can get infected when they breathe in fungal spores stirred up by wind, digging, or construction. Most healthy pets and people may show no symptoms, but some develop serious illness—ranging from pneumonia to infections of the bones, brain, or skin.
Dr. Jane Sykes emphasized that while Valley Fever is most common in California and Arizona, it is likely underreported in other states due to gaps in testing and disease tracking.
Dogs as Early Warning Systems for Human Health
Dr. Sykes was one of many experts involved in analyzing nearly 900,000 canine antibody test results over a 10-year period. The findings were striking:
- Dog cases closely mirrored known human cases geographically.
- Positive canine cases were found in counties where no human cases had previously been reported.
- Canine testing may help predict Valley Fever spread into new regions, such as Colorado, Oregon, and Montana.
“Our dogs may be acting as sentinels, showing us where this fungus is living in the soil—often before it shows up in people,” said Dr. Sykes.
Why Valley Fever Research Matters for Pet Owners
If you live in or travel to the Southwest, be aware of symptoms in your dog:
Coughing, lameness, fever, fatigue, weight loss, or skin issues can all be signs of Valley Fever.
Discourage digging, especially near rodent burrows.
Dogs who dig may inhale large amounts of fungal spores, increasing the risk of severe infection.
Know your travel history.
Dr. Sykes’ research uncovered a surprising number of Valley Fever cases in Florida—likely in dogs that had recently traveled from endemic areas like Arizona.
A vaccine is on the horizon.
The first-ever fungal vaccine for dogs is currently in clinical trials and could change how we prevent this disease in the future.
Other Urgent Public Health Updates for Pet Owners
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1)
Dr. Sykes and Dr. Sorenson discussed the emergence of the H5N1 D 1.1 strain, which has caused disease in dairy cattle and even led to a recent human death in Mexico. Pet owners should be vigilant, especially with outdoor cats who may hunt birds or pets fed raw meat diets.
New World Screwworm Resurgence
Screwworm flies, which lay eggs in wounds and around orifces (mouth, eyes, nose) lead to larvae that eat living tissue. Screwworm flies were eradicated from the U.S. decades ago. But a recent outbreak in Mexico has experts concerned. These parasites can devastate livestock populations and cause severe pain and illness in pets.
Pet owners should monitor wounds carefully for signs of unusual pain, foul odor, or larval activity, and seek immediate veterinary care.
Veterinarians must report suspected cases to state and federal authorities.
The One Health Takeaway
Valley Fever, avian influenza, and screwworm are examples of how interconnected human, animal, and environmental health truly are. Dr. Sykes stressed the importance of collaboration across fields—and encouraged doctors and veterinarians to communicate when cases arise in pets or people.
“Awareness is key. The more we share knowledge between human and veterinary medicine, the better we can protect both,” Dr. Sykes said.
May 1, 2025 - FDA Dairy testing, Avian Influenza, and Valley Fever
Avian Influenza: A Persistent Threat
Dr. Sorenson, communications specialist for the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians, joins the discussion to offer updates on public health concerns, particularly focusing on highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and its implications.
The conversation highlights recent cases, such as the unfortunate child in Mexico affected by a variant commonly found in wild birds. Dr. Sorenson cites the importance of understanding and preventing the spread of HPAI among different species, underscoring that each infection presents an opportunity for the virus to mutate, potentially leading to human-to-human transmission.
Both experts recommend essential precautions for preventing spread, such as avoiding raw milk and raw food, practicing good hygiene, and using protective gear when in potential exposure zones. They also discuss recent findings where household pets may have been exposed to the virus through contaminated clothing, illustrating the interconnectedness of health between humans and animals.
Public Health and Safety Amidst Budget Cuts
The conversation shifts to the impact of recent budget and staffing cuts within the Department of Health and Human Services on ongoing public health efforts. Dr. Sorenson shares that crucial testing exercises have been delayed, posing challenges to monitoring and controlling the spread of infectious diseases like HPAI.
She further elaborates on the suspension of the FDA’s milk proficiency testing, emphasizing the rigorous testing that continues at state and local levels. Although there is ongoing concern about long-term implications if federal oversight diminishes, current measures ensure that milk remains safe for consumption.
A Historical Perspective: Milk Quality Standards
Dr. Sorensen provides an enlightening historical context for milk safety standards, highlighting the 1850s swill milk scandal in New York. This crisis prompted the establishment of regulations that have significantly improved milk safety over the years. With ongoing public health initiatives, the U.S. has successfully reduced illness from dairy products to an impressive statistic: only one person becomes ill for every 2 billion servings of dairy.
Innovative Research and One Health Approaches: Valley Fever
The episode wraps up with an intriguing segment on leveraging veterinary models to address human health challenges. Dr. Sorenson discusses a groundbreaking study tracking Valley Fever, a fungal infection, using dogs as sentinels. This study not only illustrates the disease’s spread but also emphasizes how veterinary insights can aid human healthcare efforts, especially as climate change influences disease patterns.
April 15, 2025 - Government cuts, Avian Influenza, and Rabies
One Health Heroes: Navigating the Interconnected World of Veterinary and Public Health
Welcome to another episode of “One Health Heroes,” brought to you by the podcast series “Your Vet Wants You to Know.” In this episode, Dr. Brittany Lancellotti invites Dr. Mandy Sorenson, a communications specialist with the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians, for an insightful discussion on current issues in the world of veterinary and public health.
Exploring One Health and Recent Challenges
The episode delves into recent public health news, such as avian influenza, rabies, and funding cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services. Dr. Sorenson shares updates on avian influenza, emphasizing that while there are no new human infections in the United States, the virus is still affecting more dairy herds and animals. The conversation highlights the important concept of “biosecurity” and practical steps pet owners can take to protect their animals, such as avoiding raw food or raw milk to prevent exposure to avian influenza.
Rabies Awareness and Prevention
Rabies is a key topic of discussion, particularly in light of a recent organ transplant case potentially linked to rabies exposure. Dr. Sorenson recounts a similar 2005 case, highlighting the stealth of bat bites and their significant role as rabies carriers. The imperative for pet vaccination is stressed, illustrating how vaccinating companion animals directly contributes to human safety. Dr. Lancellotti references a previous podcast episode for additional information on rabies and the global efforts to mitigate it, such as Mission Rabies’ work in Africa.
Impact of Federal Funding Cuts on Veterinary Medicine
The conversation turns to the funding cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services. Dr. Sorenson voices concern about the potential impact on surveillance and response capabilities for diseases like avian influenza. The cuts affect agencies like the CDC, FDA, and NIH, and especially the Center for Veterinary Medicine. This center plays a vital role in drug approval and monitoring adverse drug reactions, essential for both pet and human health.
Individual Actions and Community Support
Despite these challenges, Dr. Sorenson encourages individuals to take steps to protect themselves and their pets. Simple actions such as thoroughly cooking food and consulting veterinarians at the earliest sign of pet health concerns can make a significant difference. She stresses the importance of community support for professionals in public health and veterinary roles who are working tirelessly to maintain safety and health standards.
Stay Connected with One Health Updates
Listeners are encouraged to stay informed and involved by following the One Health Hero segments released every first and 15th of the month, coinciding with the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians Newsletter.
In closing, Dr. Lancellotti thanks Dr. Sorenson for sharing her expertise and emphasizes the importance of informed and proactive engagement in veterinary and public health issues. As Dr. Sorenson expresses, despite the existing chaos, dedicated individuals and organizations are working vigilantly to maintain health and safety standards for all.
One Health Heroes - April 1, 2025 Avian Influenza: Impacts on Pets and Food Systems
One Health is the interconnected approach to health that recognizes the links between humans, animals, and the environment. Understanding and addressing these connections can help prevent the spread of diseases and safeguard public health. A perfect example of One Health in action is the ongoing outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu.
The Impact of Avian Influenza
Joining me in this episode is Dr. Mandy Sorenson, communications specialist with the American Association of Food Safety and Public Health Veterinarians. She sheds light on the current avian influenza outbreak and its significant consequences:
The outbreak, which began in 2022, has affected over 160 million commercial poultry birds worldwide, leading to devastating losses for farmers and consumers alike.
The virus has spread to wild birds, dairy cattle, and even mammals, including cats and humans in some cases.
The mortality rate in affected poultry flocks ranges between 75-100%, making this a critical public health concern.
The economic impact has been felt through rising egg prices and dairy shortages.
What Pet Owners Need to Know About Avian Influenza
Avian influenza isn’t just a concern for farmers—it also poses risks to pet owners and the general public. Here’s why you should be paying attention:
Pets Can Get Sick – Cats have been particularly vulnerable, often contracting the virus from eating raw poultry or drinking raw milk. Infected cats exhibit neurologic signs, respiratory distress, and high mortality rates.
Raw Diets Increase Risk – Feeding raw poultry or raw milk to pets is dangerous. There is no proven benefit to raw diets, but there is strong evidence of health risks, including avian influenza transmission.
Preventing Spread – Keep cats indoors, prevent dogs from scavenging wildlife, and avoid feeding raw foods to pets.
Why Avian Influenza Matters for Everyone
Avian influenza isn’t just a veterinary issue—it’s a public health crisis. Every infection is an opportunity for the virus to mutate, increasing the risk of transmission to humans. While there’s currently no human-to-human spread, history has shown that viruses can evolve unpredictably.
Who is Monitoring the Avian Influenza Outbreak?
Several key organizations are actively tracking and managing the outbreak:
Local and state departments of agriculture
Cornell University’s Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Resource Center
These agencies provide up-to-date information and guidelines for pet owners, farmers, and veterinarians to mitigate risks.
Key Points About Avian Influenza
Dr. Sorenson emphasizes three critical points for pet owners and the public:
Every infection increases the virus’s chance to mutate—prevention is key.
Avian influenza affects more than just birds—it threatens multiple species, including cats, dairy cattle, and humans.
The economic and ecological impacts are severe, affecting food supply, conservation efforts, and biodiversity.
