Risk assessment of vector-borne diseases

Globalisation, trade and changes in climate, ecology, land use and social welfare contribute to the expansion of diseases beyond their endemic foci. Wageningen scientists have developed a webtool for risk assessment of introduction, establishment, spread and persistence of livestock diseases borne by mosquitoes, midges and ticks and human burden of disease in case of vector-borne zoonoses. This helps to consider likelihood of occurrence and potential impact. Assessment of 7 diseases showed that in most cases preventing establishment is the most effective mitigation measure. The tool is currently being adjusted for the European Food Safety Authority, for transparent risk assessment of 39 diseases in Europe.