Networking to ward off animal diseases
The 'Network on epizootic disease diagnosis and control' (Epizone) project is playing a crucial role in protecting health in Europe through the prevention, detection and control of animal diseases. The EU-funded project has brought together over 300 experts in the field of animal diseases. Diseases of poultry, pigs, fish, sheep, cattle, horses and wildlife are all being covered in project activities. These include diagnostics, intervention strategies, surveillance and epidemiology and risk assessment. Researchers have identified those infectious diseases with the highest risk of introduction. By bringing together scientists from around the globe, Epizone is working to ensure a speedy response to devastating animal diseases such as bluetongue, swine fever and foot-and-mouth. This will also be achieved through an improved understanding of local situations regarding the food chain. The project has so far successfully demonstrated that effective communication and scientific collaboration are effective weapons against outbreaks. The project has shown that in order to combat animal diseases, rapid communication and response at all levels are crucial. Thanks to Epizone efforts, previously fragmented knowledge and experience are now being consolidated and will be shared for the benefit of all.
