Zoonoses and emerging animal diseases
About this expertise
In short- Detection of pathogens
- Analysis of transmission, clinical symptoms and contagiousness in animals
- Research and advice to reduce the impact of infections
- Control of zoonoses
Animals and vectors such as mosquitoes, midges and ticks play a key role in the transmission of emerging or re-emerging pathogens that can spread to humans (zoonoses). We study emerging animal diseases that pose a threat to both human and animal health. From a One Health perspective, we apply our expertise to prevent outbreaks and limit their impact.
Within an integrated One Health approach, humans, animals and the environment are closely connected. By studying these interactions, we detect new pathogens at an early stage, analyse transmission routes and risk factors and develop effective measures to prevent further spread.
Our research focuses on zoonoses such as avian and swine influenza, Q fever, Mpox and SARS-CoV-2, as well as vector-borne diseases like West Nile virus, Rift Valley fever and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever. We also conduct research on foodborne zoonoses such as Hepatitis E.
Especially respiratory viruses such as Influenza A, MERS and SARS pose potential pandemic risks. Monitoring these viruses in animals is essential to identify variants with pandemic potential at an early stage.
More information
Vectors such as mosquitoes, midges and ticks play an increasingly important role in the spread of infectious diseases. Due to climate change, their range and abundance are expanding, allowing new diseases to emerge in Europe and the Netherlands. Many of these infections first appear in animals, making the monitoring of animal populations crucial for early detection and risk mitigation.
We have extensive experience in mapping transmission routes and risk factors in livestock, wildlife and the environment. Under strict biosafety conditions, we study clinical symptoms, contagiousness and vaccine performance. Where possible, we use complex cell systems as alternatives to animal testing, enabling fast and accurate studies of host range and immune responses..
Our expertise supports risk assessment, outbreak management and the development of diagnostic tools. By collaborating with partners in animal health, public health and environmental sectors, we strengthen pandemic preparedness. Our work contributes to vaccine development, improved biosafety and effective surveillance programmes and plays a key role in controlling infectious diseases in both humans and animals.
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For more information about zoonoses and emerging animal diseases and collaborating with us, contact our expert.
LM (Luca) Bordes
Researcher Zoonoses