ARBO-ZOONET · International network for capacity building for the control of emerging viral vector borne zoonotic diseases

West Nile Fever (WNF), Rift Valley Fever (RVF) and Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) are arthropod-borne diseases of different domestic and wild animals and can also affect humans, posing a great threat to public health because of their epidemic and zoonotic potential. Their geographical distribution has expanded in recent decades. WNF outbreaks have already occurred in Europe, CCHF is endemic in many countries including Europe. In 2000, RVF, was reported the first time outside of the African continent, cases being confirmed in Saudi Arabia and Yemen. This virgin-soil epidemic raises the threat of expansion into other parts of Asia and Europe. There is a general public concern regarding emerging zoonotic diseases which has gained new relevance in the light of global warming. This is especially true regarding the spread of vector-borne diseases such as CCHF, RVF and WNF. It is imperative to work out integrated control measures which include vector control, vaccination programmes, improved therapy strategies, diagnostic tools and surveillance, public awareness, capacity building and improvement of infrastructure in endemic regions. The anticipated project will address these areas specifically aiming at: 1) creating common knowledge on the diseases, sharing and exchanging data, expertise, experiences and scientific information; 2) maintaining and expanding surveillance systems, monitoring disease occurrence, and vaccine use; 3) introducing, distributing and harmonizing disease detection and control tools; 4) disseminating knowledge and training staff of relevant third countries; 5) interlinking different scientific disciplines which look at the problem from differrent angles. A coordinated research programme including key laboratories in Europe and neighbouring countries can address scientific questions of joint interest enabling the development of effective control measures, aimed at improving the EU's response to outbreaks of diseases.