Topic: 2024-Spread of Animal Viruses
Country: Algeria
Delegate Name: Raksha Karunanithy
World Health Organization
The Spread of Animal Viruses
The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria
Raksha Karunanithy
Forest Hills Eastern
The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria acknowledges the increasing threat posed by the spread of animal viruses, specifically zoonotic diseases that could create global pandemics. Because of its diverse ecosystems which ranges from coastlines to deserts, Algeria faces a challenge in monitoring animal health and controlling the transmission of pathogens from these animals to humans, which is caused by climate change and human-animal interactions. Algeria’s agricultural practices, urban expansion, and animal displacement also contribute to the risk of zoonotic spillovers. Recent outbreaks like the avian influenza virus, highlight the immense need for stronger health systems and a coordinated international response. Algeria believes that combating these challenges through the One Health approach which joins human, animal, and environmental health to address the interconnected risks would be one of the most effective ways to reduce zoonotic virus transmissions.
Algeria has enforced veterinary surveillance systems and actively collaborates with international organizations like the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) to contribute to the global disease reporting network which enhances its ability to respond to virus outbreaks. The country also works with the African Union’s Africa CDC to help strengthen the monitoring of diseases and labs. The nation supports multiple efforts to combat climate change like reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by between 7 to 22 percent by 2030. This highlights Algeria’s alacrity to combat climate change in any way possible. They also stress the importance to enhance regional frameworks for disease control. Despite these efforts made by Algeria, limitations in resources and technology hinder its ability to perform widespread testing and vaccination campaigns. Studies have proven that zoonotic viruses are more prevalent in countries with less developed health systems which emphasizes the need for international investment in less developed nations, especially in Africa. Algeria’s climate policies, outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, aim to reduce environmental factors that would increase outbreak risks, like deforestation and habitat loss.
To combat the spread of animal viruses, Algeria calls on the international community to improve surveillance systems, expand their funding for zoonotic research, and strengthen emergency preparedness that would include things like establishing regional stockpiles of vaccines for deployment in case of a sudden outbreak. Public education campaigns, and sustainable land use policies are incredibly important when it comes to reducing the risk of zoonotic outbreaks. Algeria reiterates its commitment to international cooperation and urges other countries to reciprocate the effort to prevent future outbreaks and pandemics to safeguard the health and well-being of everyone.
