Commission launches technology platform for Animal Health
The European Commission, in partnership with industry, has launched a technology platform on 'Global Animal Health' to deal with major animal diseases in the developing world and in Europe. Launched at a Dutch Presidency conference aimed at defining a common research agenda and mobilising a critical mass of resources, the platform is supported by Development Commissioner Louis Michel, Science and Research Commissioner Janez Potocnik and Health and Consumer Protection Commissioner Markos Kyprianou. 'Europe has a proven record in research into transmissible animal diseases, stated Mr Potocnik. 'Further research to develop better tools to prevent and control outbreaks in Europe and other parts of the world will be an important contribution of the scientific community to this technology platform.' 'New vaccines, diagnostics to confirm the existence of a virus and understanding the patterns of outbreak will be decisive to containing new epidemics and helping to eradicate these diseases. This technology platform will enhance European competitiveness and scientific leadership in this area and contribute to the development of a strong European knowledge-based bioeconomy,' added Mr Potocnik. The Global Technology Platform for Animal Health is an industry driven initiative, which will create a partnership covering the whole chain, from innovation to delivery of new vaccines and tests, explained Mr Kyprianou. It will bring together veterinary, pharmaceutical and small biotechnology companies, research institutions, the financial world and the regulatory authorities at European level. The project aims to conceive and deliver the most up-to-date tools, such as new vaccines or tests to control major animal diseases. Under both the Fifth and the Sixth Framework Programmes, the Commission has been supporting research into the principal livestock diseases, such as foot-and-mouth disease, avian influenza, classical swine fever, African swine fever, rinderpest, and bluetongue. Research into these illnesses has focused on diagnostics tests, vaccines, epidemiology and biosafety, and wildlife reservoirs.