Diseases that are naturally transmitted from animals to humans are called zoonoses. Outbreaks or events involving new or re-emerging zoonoses also occur in the Netherlands. It is important to signal, assess and control zoonoses, especially since new zoonotic diseases will continue to emerge. An appropriate response to emerging zoonoses requires close cooperation between medical and veterinary professionals. Accordingly, a systematic One Health approach was developed and officially instituted for the purpose of sharing, assessing and responding to signals of new and re-emerging zoonotic infections in which veterinary and medical professionals work together.