Zoonotic diseases, i.e., infectious diseases transmitted from animals to humans, pose a significant challenge to global healthcare. In this context, we interviewed Doctor of Veterinary Sciences, Professor Batyrbek Aitjanov, about the intersections of veterinary medicine and human healthcare, disease prevention, the importance of vaccines, and the current state of domestic science.

— Could you explain the connection between veterinary medicine and human healthcare? How similar are their goals?

— Veterinary medicine and human medicine are two separate fields, but their ultimate goal is the same: to preserve human life and health. Currently, the number of infections common to both humans and animals is increasing. For example, tuberculosis, anthrax, brucellosis, and coronavirus infections are all zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted from animals to humans. Therefore, treating and protecting animals directly protects humans. This is the foundation of the One Health concept, which is recognized worldwide. Humans, animals, and the environment are three closely interconnected elements.

— What is the role of veterinary specialists in combating infections today?

— In veterinary medicine, preventive measures are commonly used because preventing a disease is far more cost-effective than treating it. Vaccines are employed to prevent infections. Human medicine, on the other hand, primarily focuses on treating patients. Currently, most scientists involved in vaccine development are veterinarians. They work extensively with microorganisms, viruses, and bacteria, and have a deep understanding of the mechanisms of disease spread and the nature of pathogens. Of course, there are biologists and virologists in this field as well, but the contribution of veterinarians is particularly significant. Veterinarians are experts in practical immunology and epidemiology. The QazVac vaccine is a clear example: it was developed in a very short period. Few countries in the world have achieved such success.