Title : The effectiveness of the one health approach in controlling crimean-congo hemorrhagic fever outbreaks in the sultanate of Oman

Background: Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a severe viral disease with significant fatality rates and public health implications. Despite ongoing efforts, controlling CCHF remains challenging, particularly in endemic regions such as Oman. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health strategies, in managing CCHF outbreaks in Oman.

Methods: A retrospective descriptive analysis was conducted on CCHF outbreak data from 2011 to 2025 in Oman to assess the impact of specific One Health strategies, including integrated surveillance, vector control, community educational programs and cross-sectoral rapid response teams.

Results: Post-implementation of the One Health approach, there was a significant reduction in the number of CCHF cases. Our analysis indicates that strengthened surveillance, rapid response, and integrated vector management contributed to these improvements. The Oman MoH has undertaken a number of activities and initiatives to educate and inform the public about the risks of CCHF infection associated with slaughtering. A joint strategic initiative was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and Ministry of Municipalities and Water Resources. Education and information on prevention of CCHF in different languages have been targeted at those involved in slaughtering and handling animals.

Conclusions: The One Health approach has been effectively utilized to control CCHF outbreaks in Oman, demonstrating a significant decrease in number of CCHF cases. These findings highlight the value of integrated public health strategies and support the expansion of such approaches in similar contexts to strengthen zoonotic disease management and public health preparedness.

Keywords: One health; Hemorrhagic Fever Virus; Crimean-Congo; Rapid Response Team; zoonotic diseases

Dr. Sabria Al-Marshoudi is an Omani epidemiologist with over 10 years of experience in infectious disease surveillance, outbreak response, and vector-borne disease control. She holds an MPH in Epidemiology from the University of Miami and is currently pursuing a PhD at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. She serves as Head of Malaria, Vector-Borne Diseases and Emerging Diseases at Oman’s Ministry of Health. Her work focuses on malaria elimination, dengue prevention, integrated vector management, and the One Health approach. She has also contributed to national and WHO-supported public health initiatives in Oman.