Vector-borne diseases-knowledge maps

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Epidemiology
• Zoonotic Disease Research
• Public Health Entomology

Background:

• Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) pose significant threats to animal health within the European Union (EU).
• A comprehensive understanding of VBDs is crucial for effective risk assessment and management strategies.
• Existing knowledge on VBDs is fragmented, necessitating harmonization for robust assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a structured overview of 25 selected VBDs relevant to the EU.
• To compile and harmonize existing scientific knowledge on VBDs for subsequent risk assessments.
• To support EU-level risk assessments by creating a transparent evidence base.

Main Methods:

• Selection of 25 VBDs based on predefined eligibility criteria, including EU presence and vector/host data.
• Systematic literature review framework applied to six knowledge areas: infection dynamics, transmission, diagnostics, vaccines, treatments, and geographical distribution.
• Standardized disease fact sheets created for each VBD.

Main Results:

• Detailed fact sheets covering experimental infections, pathogen survival, transmission, diagnostic accuracy, and treatment/vaccine efficacy for 25 VBDs.
• Information on the geographical distribution of pathogens and competent vectors within the EU.
• Identification of VBDs with uncertain status or absence in at least half of EU Member States.

Conclusions:

• The report establishes a harmonized and transparent evidence base for VBDs relevant to the EU.
• This evidence base will support future EU-level risk assessments concerning animal health.
• An online platform provides continuously updated information, including interactive maps and datasets.