Fieldwork and data collection in Ghent during spring

Last spring, OAH team members from Ghent University conducted extensive fieldwork in Ghent and surrounding urban areas. The research focused on collecting diverse biological samples and data, including stream macroinvertebrates, ticks, bird droppings, mosquitoes, and bird and amphibian recordings. These samples will play a crucial role in assessing ecosystem health and potential human health risks, highlighting the intricate connections between environmental and public health. Two internship students actively participated in the data collection process, gaining not only practical fieldwork skills but also deeper insights into the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnections between ecosystem health, animal health, and human health.

The fieldwork sparked curiosity among local residents, who showed keen interest in the research setups. This unexpected engagement allowed the team to explain the project’s goals and methodologies, raise awareness about local ecosystem health, and foster community interest in scientific research. Residents expressed enthusiasm about the project and are eagerly anticipating the results of this important fieldwork, which promises to shed light on the complex relationships between our environment and our well-being.