One Health Approach in the Era of Emerging Viruses: The Challenge of Usutu Virus

The One Health concept recognises the close interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health. In recent years, this perspective has intensified scientific focus on zoonoses. Among these, arboviruses—viruses transmitted by arthropod vectors—represent an emerging challenge, particularly in the present period strongly conditioned by climate change. Usutu virus (USUV) is a Flavivirus maintained via an enzootic bird–mosquito–bird cycle that infects other vertebrates. USUV is currently a significant animal health concern due to its expanding host range and increasing avian mortality events. Although USUV appears to be less dangerous than other emerging arboviruses in humans, the neurological disorders it can cause are alarming and increase the need for a better understanding of the spread and genetic evolution of USUV, as well as for the stronger promotion of vaccine and antiviral development. As with other arboviruses, treatment for USUV is limited to avoiding contact with mosquitoes, which is not always possible. Since vaccines do not yet exist, the use of modern OMICS sciences may provide comprehensive knowledge for developing effective control and prevention measures to avoid future pandemics and contain current epidemics.