[ 'Severe acute respiratory syndrome' (SARS) in perspective]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases

Context:

• The Netherlands faces potential risks from imported infectious diseases like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
• Previous outbreaks of zoonotic diseases (e.g., Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, swine fever, avian influenza) in the Dutch bioindustry have resulted in significant culling of livestock.
• The intensive bioindustry may pose microbiological risks.

Purpose:

• To assess the risk of a severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in the Netherlands.
• To discuss the implications of zoonotic diseases and the Dutch bioindustry's future.

Summary:

• The risk of a SARS outbreak in the Netherlands is considered limited if strict contamination prevention measures are implemented for individuals exposed to potential imported cases.
• Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is likely a zoonosis, originating from animals.
• The Dutch bioindustry's role in disease outbreaks necessitates a critical evaluation of its future sustainability and safety.

Impact:

• Highlights the importance of stringent public health protocols in managing imported zoonotic diseases.
• Underscores the need for a comprehensive risk assessment of the bioindustry concerning infectious disease transmission.
• Prompts a crucial dialogue on the future of intensive animal farming in the Netherlands in light of public health and animal welfare concerns.