Georgia Southern University’s Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics expands global One Health research in Ireland

The Institute for Health Logistics and Analytics (IHLA) at Georgia Southern University is expanding its global One Health research through its presence in County Wexford, Ireland. By building on Georgia Southern’s international footprint in Wexford, IHLA has launched the One Health Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) study — a community-based research project focused on the interconnected health of humans, animals, plants and the environment.

IHLA researchers first traveled to Ireland in November 2024, laying the groundwork for strategic partnerships with Healthy Wexford, University College Dublin, Wexford Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Ireland. These partners have proven to be instrumental in advancing IHLA’s global One Health agenda.

The One Health KAP survey first launched in May 2025 via Healthy Wexford’s social media and email campaigns. Soon after, IHLA researchers returned to Ireland to conduct in-person outreach at community events across County Wexford.

“Our partners have been instrumental in making sure our survey reaches individuals across the county,” said IHLA project manager Jill Johns and the lead on the KAP project.. “Healthy Wexford not only promoted the survey online before our arrival, but they also made connections and introductions that enabled us to engage with residents face-to-face. The international and interdisciplinary nature of this work is what excites me most — it’s work that will have a lasting impact on the communities it serves.”

The study offers residents of County Wexford the opportunity to weigh in on issues related to human, animal, plant and environmental health. In addition to the survey, key informant interviews are being conducted to deepen IHLA’s understanding of local One Health knowledge and practices.

“This work is so rewarding — not only are we increasing our knowledge of One Health practices globally, we’re building strong, lasting collaborations with our Irish partners,” said IHLA Director Jessica Schwind, Ph.D. “We will be able to share these results with the communities we’ve surveyed so they can highlight their strengths and identify areas where more resources are needed to improve health outcomes for all.”

“I’ve been truly inspired by the people of County Wexford,” said IHLA’s Megan Mercer. “They’re incredibly thoughtful, generous with their time, and deeply committed to the health of their communities and environment. Their engagement has made this work both meaningful and energizing.”