Description:
Risk analysis is an important tool to identify and manage risks in international trade. Risk assessment methodologies differ, however, among disciplines, like animal health, plant health and food safety. This project aims at integrating these different approaches by assessing risks of mutual interest, like the introduction, establishment and spread of vector-borne diseases. Introduction of these diseases cannot only be induced by the import of infected animals, but also by an extension or shift of the vector s habitat or by importation of the vector alongside with non-susceptible animals or plant species. Risk analysis of vector-borne diseases thus requires a multidisciplinary approach, taking into account veterinarian, entomological, ecological, and climatological aspects. The recent incursion of exotic vector-borne diseases into areas hitherto free from disease have urged the need for control of these diseases, both in the newly affected areas and in endemic regions. Better knowledge of these diseases and more insight into the possible pathways for introduction and establishment is a prerequisite for efficient and (cost-)effective risk management.
Research objectives:
The aim of the project is to integrate the various approaches for risk assessment currently used in a framework for risk assessment of introduction, establishment and spread of vector-borne diseases. This framework should build on existing guidelines, protocols and models, and contact will be sought with international organisations like FAO, OIE, and IPPC. The idea is to test the framework by applying it to a case study for introduction, establishment and spread of African Horse Sickness (AHS) in Europe.
Results and products:
The main result of the project is an integrated risk analysis framework for introduction, establishment and spread of vector-borne diseases. The proposed case study for AHS will provide insight into the risk of introduction, establishment and spread of AHS in Europe. The project will deliver a report describing the integrated risk analysis framework. Results of the risk assessment for AHS will be given in a separate report. |
