Vector-borne diseases in animals

About this expertise

In short

Arthropod-borne viruses (arbovirus)
Diagnostic and surveillance
Epidemiology and risk assessment
Host-vector-virus interaction
Intervention strategies

Introduction

Vector-borne (viral) diseases are transmitted by insects such as midges, mosquitoes and ticks. These pathogens threaten both animals and humans and are increasingly prevalent in the Netherlands and across Europe. Understanding and controlling these diseases is essential for protecting animal health, food systems and public health.

Arboviruses pose an increasing threat to both veterinary and public health. Climate change, shifts in land use and globalisation increase the risk of new viruses being introduced and becoming established. Our multidisciplinary team takes a One Health approach to support farmers, governments and industries by providing diagnostics, research, and policy advice to prevent and control vector-borne diseases, many of which are zoonotic.

Our research covers:

Virus: diagnostics, surveillance, epidemiology, molecular biology of replication strategies and reverse genetics.
Vector: host–vector interactions, vector competence of mosquitoes, ticks and biting midges.
Host: In vivo models, complex cell systems (e.g., organ-on-chip and organoids), host immune responses and preclinical vaccine evaluation.

We aim to prevent the reemergence of vector-borne viruses by implementing robust surveillance, strictly monitoring animal movement and developing reliable diagnostics and vaccines.

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