Med-Vet-Net

Med-Vet-Net is a European Network of Excellence for zoonoses research. It was established to enhance the integration of veterinary, medical, and food scientists in order to improve research on zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

History

Med-Vet-Net was initiated in 2004 as part of the European Union's Sixth Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development. The network aimed to bring together experts from various disciplines to address the challenges posed by zoonotic diseases.

Objectives

The primary objectives of Med-Vet-Net include:

• Integration of research efforts across Europe to improve the understanding of zoonotic diseases.
• Collaboration between veterinary and medical scientists to develop new strategies for disease prevention and control.
• Training and capacity building for researchers in the field of zoonoses.
• Dissemination of research findings to stakeholders, including policymakers, industry, and the public.

Research Areas

Med-Vet-Net focuses on several key research areas, including:

• Epidemiology of zoonotic diseases.
• Pathogenesis and host-pathogen interactions.
• Diagnostics and surveillance methods.
• Risk assessment and management strategies.
• Public health implications of zoonoses.

Member Institutions

The network comprises numerous member institutions across Europe, including universities, research institutes, and governmental agencies. These institutions collaborate on various projects and share resources and expertise.

Achievements

Med-Vet-Net has contributed significantly to the understanding and management of zoonotic diseases. Some of its achievements include:

• Development of new diagnostic tools for early detection of zoonoses.
• Improved risk assessment models for predicting outbreaks.
• Enhanced communication and collaboration between veterinary and medical sectors.

Related pages

• Zoonosis
• Epidemiology
• Public health
• Veterinary medicine