EU Vet Week 2008
Animal disease outbreaks can have devastating consequences for animal health, the food supply, the economy and society as a whole. Some animal diseases also pose grave threats to human health (zoonoses). That’s why I regard the prevention and control of animal diseases as a top priority for the European Union.
Legislation on serious diseases such as avian influenza and foot and mouth disease has been updated in the last few years, and the Commission has worked closely with Member States to improve preparation for, and response to, disease outbreaks. In addition, the EU’s Animal Health Strategy for 2007–13 is an important milestone to further strengthen and rationalise the important body of EU legislation in this domain. Based on the principle that “prevention is better than cure”, it has set an ambitious agenda for the near future.
As biosecurity as a crucial component of ensuring a high level of animal health, I am delighted to offer my support to the EU Veterinary Week 2008. It provides us with an excellent opportunity to reflect on how best we can use biosecurity measures to prevent and limit disease outbreaks. As many new diseases affect both humans and animals, an integrated approach is needed: Animals + Humans = One health.
Biosecurity is no longer an issue of interest only for veterinarians and farmers but also for the wider public given the unprecedented spread of certain diseases in recent years. Let us combine our efforts by encouraging farmers, veterinarians and the general public to work together to implement an effective biosecurity approach.
As always, the European Commission cannot hope to fulfil its ambitions by acting alone. Effective partnerships are needed in order to achieve a truly integrated and successful approach. I therefore urge you all to play your part in biosecurity – whether you are a farmer, a veterinarian or a traveller – as you are all important actors for ensuring the prevention and control of animal diseases in the EU.
Androulla Vassiliou
Commissioner for Health