On 13 May 2026, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published a scientific report titled 'Vector-borne diseases-knowledge maps', aiming to identify current knowledge gaps and research priorities for vector-borne diseases relevant to the EU. The report is intended to guide future risk assessment and surveillance efforts, impacting public health authorities, researchers, and policymakers.
The report, produced by EFSA's Panel on Animal Health and Welfare (AHAW), compiles and visualizes existing scientific literature and expert knowledge on vector-borne diseases such as West Nile virus, bluetongue, and Lyme disease. It highlights areas where data are lacking, including vector distribution, pathogen transmission dynamics, and the impact of climate change on disease spread.
Policy orientations and trade-offs
The knowledge maps are designed to support evidence-based decision-making, but they also reveal trade-offs between investing in broad surveillance versus targeted research. The report calls for enhanced monitoring of vector populations and disease incidence, which would require increased funding and coordination among member states. This may divert resources from other animal health priorities.
Impact on stakeholders - EU public health authorities: The maps provide a tool to prioritize surveillance and control measures, but may require additional budget allocations. - Researchers: The report identifies specific research gaps, potentially steering funding and collaboration opportunities. - Livestock and agricultural sectors: Better understanding of vector-borne diseases could lead to more effective prevention, reducing economic losses, but may also result in stricter biosecurity requirements. - EU citizens: Improved disease surveillance can reduce human health risks, though costs may be passed on through taxes or food prices.
Expected institutional follow-up EFSA's report is expected to inform the European Commission's upcoming strategy on vector-borne diseases, as well as national risk assessments. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) may also use the findings to refine its own surveillance programs. No immediate regulatory changes are anticipated, but the report lays the groundwork for future policy decisions.
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