Virtual Training for Managing Emerging Zoonotic Diseases including COVID-19

The burden of zoonotic diseases is an important global issue affecting human and animal health, food value chains, international trade, the environment. Two-thirds infectious health are origin. Information knowledge associated effects critical for managing these diseases. World TAP at Michigan State University offered online course in March 2021, which a diverse group 42 participants from 15 countries Africa, Asia, Middle East, Americas attended. Grounded on Experiential Leaning Theory this paper discusses conceptualization, design, implementation, outcomes of, lessons-learned course. Key contents comprehensive included epidemiology diseases, zoonoses wildlife origin, utilizing One Health approach to zoonoses, roles regional/international organizations strengthening disease management capacities, pandemic diagnosis, prevention, prediction paired t-test results using pre- post-course survey data showed significant increases participants’ level post-course. comparison their pre-course knowledge. During interactive discussion, stressed need continuing information sharing, networking. For future offerings, suggested adding impacts effect climate change zoonoses., increasing collaborations between national, regional, working zoonoses. With success first offering, MSU will continue offer future, may be hybrid mode.