ESFLU: EUROPEAN SWINE INFLUENZA NETWORK
Contact: Carsten Kirkeby, e-mail: ckir@sund.ku.dk
Background
Swine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease in pigs caused by influenza A viruses (swIAV) which leads to production losses. The intensification of pork production systems and free livestock movement across borders fosters the spread of the virus in Europe. New variants, some with zoonotic potential, constantly emerge. Recent human pandemics have highlighted the zoonotic and reverse zoonotic potential of swine influenza and its risks for both animal and public health. Despite the burdens caused by swine influenza, surveillance across Europe is scanty and fragmented. Disease awareness is low in some European countries, diagnostic protocols are not harmonized, most countries lack standardised procedures and vaccinecoverage is inconsistent. An interdisciplinary expert network is needed to develop a comprehensive view of the disease and its impacts to better manage swine influenza in Europe.
Objectives
The objectives of the ESFLU COST ACTION project are:
- Facilitate data sharing and analysis for swIAV surveillance with national and international agencies
- Establish the network as the European OFFLU counterpart and support global surveillance and pandemic preparedness
- Strengthen capability in Europe to detect, identify and characterize swIAV virus
- Establish guidelines for swIAV management and control in pig herds
- Promote dialog between stakeholders and inform policymakers and the general public on swine flu disease burden and the risks to public health.
Project participants
- Carsten Kirkeby
- Lars Erik Larsen
- Pia Ryt-Hansen