Abstract:

Gastrointestinal nematodes are among the most significant parasites affecting liverstock health and productivity, leading to major economic losses and contributing to the global increase in resistance to anthelmintics. Biological control using fungi with ovicidal and nematophagous activity offers an environmentally friendly alternative. This study investigated, for the first time, the interactive effects between the nematophagous/larvicidal fungus Duddingtonia flagrans and the ovicidal fungus Pochonia chlamydosporia under natural infection conditions. Eighteen Holstein × Zebu males (12–15 months old) were divided into three groups (n = 6): T1 (D. flagrans), T2 (D. flagrans + P. chlamydosporia), and control. Treatments were administered orally daily (6 g/100 kg BW of each fungus; 10⁶ chlamydospores/g) for nine months. Faecal egg counts (EPG) and infective larvae in pasture (L3) were monitored. Groups T1 and T2 showed significantly lower EPG values than the control during most of the experimental period. Haemonchus spp. was identified as the predominant nematode, confirming its epidemiological relevance. The combined fungal treatment exhibited synergistic activity, enhancing parasite suppression through complementary ovicidal and larvicidal mechanisms. This approach proposes a sustainable and reproducible alternative to the excessive use of chemical compounds, contributing innovative and applicable solutions to national livestock production and integrated animal health.

Abstract: Malaria remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in Africa, a continent that bears a significant percentage of the global malaria morbidity and mortality. From the earliest microscopic discoveries of Plasmodium to the era of genomics and vaccine innovations, Africa has stood both as the epicentre of the disease, and the focal point of global research and control efforts. The continent’s unique ecological, genetic, and socio-political contexts have also shaped the evolution of the parasite, the host, and the mosquito vector. African scientists, institutions, and communities have progressively transitioned from being subjects of investigations to active contributors in malaria research; advancing studies in epidemiology, molecular biology, pharmacogenomics, and vaccine development. This review traces the journey of malaria science from its microscopic origins to genomic breakthroughs; emphasising how Africa’s contributions, challenges, and innovations have redefined global understanding. It also highlights the importance of locally-driven research, surveillance, and policy frameworks to translate genomic data into practical solutions, aiming towards equitable and sustainable malaria elimination on the continent.

Abstract: Haemonchus contortus (H. contortus) is a gastrointestinal parasite that affects small ruminants, causing anemia, edema, and, in severe cases, death, posing a significant threat to livestock production. This study focused on analyzing the parasite’s sexual differentiation to identify potential molecular targets for the development of control strategies. The genes daf-12, fem-1, and sdc-2 were evaluated based on their orthologs in Caenorhabditis elegans. Specific primers were designed, and nucleic acids were extracted from L3 larvae and adult male and female H. contortus. Gene presence and expression were analyzed using PCR and RT-PCR, along with protein structure modeling and phylogenetic analysis. Results showed differential gene expression depending on life stage and sex: daf-12 was highly expressed in L3 larvae, indicating its involvement in early development; fem-1 showed higher expression in males, suggesting a role in male sexual differentiation; while sdc-2 was more expressed in females, implying a function in regulating female characteristics. These findings provide key insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sexual differentiation in H. contortus, which could contribute to the development of novel control tools and help mitigate the economic losses caused by this parasite in livestock production.

Abstract: This study was conducted to assess the involvement of two lizard species: the sand lizard (L. agilis) and the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), and their Ixodes ricinus ticks, in the circulation spirochetes of the Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. complex. Lizards were captured at three study sites in suburban areas of western Poland. Common lizards were less abundant and occurred only at one site. A total of 1,129 ticks were collected from 167 sand lizards and 164 individuals from 42 common lizards. Biopsies of the distal part of the lizard tail were taken from 172 animals. All samples that tested positive by real-time PCR underwent subsequent nested PCR targeting the flaB gene, followed by sequencing. At least 6.3% of I. ricinus ticks (MIR) from L. agilis, and 6.1% from Z. vivipara, were infected. Borrelia lusitaniae was the most prevalent species in L. agilis-derived ticks, accounting for 73.2% of all infected samples, followed by B. burgdorferi s.s. (23.0%). Conversely, this latter species prevailed (90%) over B. lusitaniae (10%) in tick samples from Z. vivipara. Therefore, we believe that sand lizards are competent reservoir hosts for B. lusitaniae, while the role of Z. vivipara for this species is unclear. The high prevalence of B. burgdorferi s.s. was also found in infected larval samples (40.7%) and biopsies (60%) of L. agilis. Thus, in our opinion, these two lizard species could be another group of reservoir hosts for this human pathogen, along with birds and rodents.

Abstract:

Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis widespread in animals and humans, is an intracellular apicomplexan protozoan parasite infecting a variety of host cells. Gene editing using CRISPR-Cas9 has become a standard tool to investigate the molecular genetics of this interaction. With respect to gene knock-out (KO) studies, the general paradigm implies that the gene of interest is expressed in the wildtype and that only the gene of interest is affected by the knock-out. Consequently, the observed phenotype depends on presence or absence of genes of interest. To challenge this paradigm, we knocked out two open reading frames (ORFs) constitutively expressed in T. gondii ShSp1 tachyzoites, but not essential, namely ORF 297720 encoding a trehalose-6-phosphatase homolog and ORF 319730 encoding a You2 C2C2 zinc finger homolog. We analyzed the proteomes of tachyzoites isolated at a late stage of infection, of intracellular tachyzoites and of host cells at an early stage of infection. The intended KO proteins were present in the T. gondii Sp1 wildtype but absent in the KO clones. Moreover, besides differentially expressed (DE) proteins specific to each KO, 17 DE proteins common to both KOs were identified in isolated and 39 in intracellular tachyzoites. Moreover, 76 common DE proteins were identified in host cells. Network and enrichment analyses showed that these proteins were functionally related to antiviral defense mechanisms. These results indicate that the KO of a gene of interest may not only affect the expression of other genes of the target organism, in our case T. gondii, but also the gene expression of its host cells. Therefore, phenotypes of KO strains may not be causally related to the KO of a given gene.

Abstract:

Background: Clinical research lab is a key component of the conduct of clinical studies. Enrolment, follow up of patients is mainly based on the diagnosis skills of lab technicians and automates performance. To overcome this challenge, since 2020, as part of the quality assurance of its lab research activities, GRAS has registered with the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the Clinical Laboratories Services (CLS) Johannesburg, South Africa for external proficiency testing (EPT) of its laboratory. The performances achieved during these last five years are reported. Methods: PT samples were couriered out three times a year (quadr-month) (hereafter referred to as Q) to GRAS Lab and results were generally due back two to three weeks later. For parasitology, challenges specimen are thick and thin blood films stained with Giemsa and mounted with strip to protected them for multiple use, or photographs also called ̎ whole slide images ̎ (WSI). For biochemistry and haematology, a set of 5 samples were received for processing. All the evaluations were performed according to the GRAS lab internal established procedures. Results: The overall CAP parasitological laboratory performance in term of diagnosis accuracy of malaria parasites and other blood parasites from 2020 to 2024 was 97.3% (ranging from 93,33 to 100%); with 93,33%, 100%, 100%, 93.33% and 100% achieved respectively in 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. Annually, the number of evaluated microscopists varied according to operational staff at the time of evaluation. In total, 31 microscopists were enrolled in CLS PT scheme, with 73.9% graded as “experts” microscopists and 19.2% graded as “reference” microscopists. For haematology, the PT showed 100% accuracy over the 4 years participation indicating the high-performance level of the tested automates and the comparability of data between automates. Same trend was observed for biochemistry PT results with an overall score of 92,12% ranging from 78% to 100%. Conclusion: The Proficiency testing has demonstrated value as an important laboratory quality assurance tool to guaranty the accuracy skill for malaria parasites and other blood parasites diagnosis by lab technicians and results generated by the automates. It has helped laboratories identify issues related to test design and performance.

Abstract: Type-P5 ATPases are the least characterized among the P-type ATPases and this is especially true in the case of the malaria parasite. In this study, Spf1, a subtype-P5A ATPase of yeast, and ATP13A2, a subtype-P5B ATPase of humans, were used as templates to extensively characterize the sequences and structural features of haemosporidian type-P5 ATPases. Malaria parasites have both subtype-P5A and subtype-P5B ATPase genes and the structural features of the proteins recapitulate the known structures of subtype-P5A and subtype-P5B ATPases respectively. Detailed structural analysis detected an addition-al alpha-helix in the P-domain of subtype-P5A ATPases which is not found in subtype-P5B ATPases. This feature may be an additional signature to distinguish subtype-P5A and subtype-P5B ATPases in addition to the differences in the membrane loops of the N-terminal domain, the arm in the P-domain of subtype-P5A, and substrate differences. A notable difference in the type-P5 ATPases from the malaria parasite, as compared to the templates, is the insertion of multiple regions of variable and low-complexity regions that form intrinsically disorganized loops. These loops may form a shroud-like structure that protects the core ATPase structure and/or participates in low-affinity interprotein interactions. Homology modeling did not provide definitive answers about the substrate specificity of the haemosporidian type-P5 ATPases. However, the haemosporidian sub-type-P5A ATPase is likely an ER transmembrane dislocase as are the other subtype-P5A ATPases. In contrast, the subtype-P5B ATPases of the malaria parasite are not likely to be polyamine transporters in lysosomes, as have been described in fungi and metazoans. This suggests that subtype-P5B ATPases have undergone lineage specific divergence in regard to their function(s).

Abstract:

Background: Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic vector-borne disease and a significant global public health concern worldwide and in Algeria. In This study we have investigated the potential role of ticks and fleas as carriers of Leishmania in endemic regions of Algeria. Methods: Adult ectoparasites were collected from reservoir dogs and cohabiting animals across three provinces: Tizi-Ouzou (northeast), M'Sila (southeast), and Tébessa (extreme east). A subset of 247 ectoparasites was randomly selected for Leishmania DNA screening using ITS1-PCR. Results: Morphological identification revealed two tick species, Rhipicephalus turanicus (378 specimens) and Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l (127 specimens), and one flea species, Ctenocephalides felis (94 specimens). Dogs were the most heavily infested hosts (74.12%), followed by sheep (9.51%) and cats (9.34%). Leishmania DNA was detected in 36.43% (90/247) of the tested specimens, with higher positivity in ticks (41.32%) compared to fleas (17.64%). Infection rates varied by host species, with dogs harboring the majority of positive ectoparasites (62/90), primarily R. sanguineus s.l (19/30) and R. turanicus (40/115). Leishmania DNA was also detected in ectoparasites collected from cats and sheep, whereas goats and rabbits were free from Leishmania DNA. Conclusions: This investigation highlights the high detection rate of Leishmania DNA in ticks and fleas from animals in Algerian endemic regions, indicating exposure to infected hosts. Together with previous reports, these findings support the view that ticks and fleas may act as incidental hosts or mechanical carriers of the parasite. However, their role in parasite transmission remains unconfirmed and warrant further investigation, particularly through studies assessing vector competence. These results emphasize the need for additional research to clarify the contribution of these ectoparasites to Leishmania transmission and multi-host dynamics.

Abstract: Horse flies (Tabanidae) negatively affect livestock by reducing productivity, compro-mising animal welfare, and serving as mechanical vectors of pathogens. However, the spatial processes shaping their community organization in southern Brazil’s Coastal Plain of Rio Grande do Sul (CPRS) remain poorly understood. To address this, we con-ducted standardized Malaise-trap surveys and combined them with historical–contemporary comparisons to examine distance–decay patterns in community compo-sition. We evaluated both abundance-based (Bray–Curtis) and presence–absence (Jac-card) dissimilarities using candidate models. Across sites, Tabanus triangulum emerged as the dominant species. Dissimilarity in community structure increased monotonically with geographic distance, with no evidence of abrupt thresholds. The square-root model provided the best fit for abundance-based data, whereas a linear model best described presence–absence patterns, reflecting dispersal limitation and environmental filtering across a heterogeneous coastal landscape. Sites within riparian forests and conservation units displayed higher diversity, emphasizing the ecological role of protected habitats and the importance of maintaining connected corridors. Collectively, these findings establish a process-based framework for surveillance and landscape management strategies to mitigate vector, host contact. Future directions include integrating remote sensing and host distribution, applying predictive valida-tion across temporal scales.

Abstract:

Parasites of marine mammals are of significant interest in the fields of evolutionary biology, veterinary medicine, human health, conservation, and ecology. Therefore, every opportunity to study them should be seized. This study aimed to report on specimens of cestodes found in the small intestine of a gray whale (Eschrichtius robustus) in Chukotka, Russia, in 2024. The specimens were examined using light and scanning electron microscopy, histology, and molecular analysis. Based on their morphology and host specificity, the cestodes were identified as Priapocephalus eschrichtii. Analyses of the 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA genes confirmed a close relationship between P. eschrichtii and species of Tetrabothrius, which infect seabirds and whales. Sequences of the 18S, 28S, ITS2 rDNA, and gene CoxI mtDNA are reported here for the first time. More than 50 specimens of P. eschrichtii were detected in 1 meter of intestine of the whale with a maximum length of 50 cm. Chronic lymphoplasmacytic inflammation of the intestinal mucosa was observed in the infected whale. The eggs of the cestodes were clustered within an irregular membrane, which may contribute to multiple infestations of the host and lead to diseases that affect the whale’s health and survival. This study should be continued.

Abstract: For eight years prior to Argentina's malaria-free certification in 2019, there were no instances of local transmission. Epidemiological surveillance focused on detecting Plasmodium vivax in areas where the last cases had been reported. During the national malaria surveillance program (2016-2018) in Salvador Mazza (Salta Province, northwestern Argentina), several neighborhoods were randomly selected for the collection of human blood samples to detect any silent circulation of P. vivax. Diagnosis of malaria parasites relied on traditional microscopy and molecular detection using blood collected on filter paper, by amplifying and sequencing a portion of the Plasmodium cytochrome b gene. An autochthonous case of P. vivax was identified in an asymptomatic 64-year-old individual in La Bendición neighborhood, Salvador Mazza. The individual had never traveled to any P. vivax-endemic region. This case is the first detected among 92 samples collected from various localities along Argentina's borders with Bolivia (northwest) and Brazil (northeast). This finding highlights the possibility of silent circulation of P. vivax in areas previously assumed to be malaria-free and raises concerns regarding the timing of the certification, prompting a reevaluation of the current situation. The extent of P. vivax circulation among asymptomatic individuals remains largely unknown. This is the first molecularly confirmed asymptomatic case of P. vivax reported following malaria-free certification in Argentina and the Southern Cone region. Currently, there is no active epidemiological or entomological surveillance in the area where the case was recorded. The permeable nature of the border facilitates disease transmission, and the lack of information about the movement of asymptomatic individuals is particularly concerning. It is imperative that the surveillance system responds effectively to maintain the status as a malaria-free country, prioritizing this within the national health system agenda due to the potential implications of silent malaria circulation and the risk of re-emergence and re-establishment.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the optimal incubation time for accurate assessment of parasitic nematode eggs viability, an important step in improving parasitological diagnostics. The experiment used Ascaris suum eggs were collected from three sources: adult roundworms uteri (U), pig faeces (F) and sewage sludge (S), then incubated at 27°C and monitored weekly. Eggs were classified as dead (with clear deformations), viable (with motile larvae) or of uncertain viability (retaining structural integrity but undeveloped). The results showed that eggs from group U had the highest viability (96%) and developed larvae within 3 weeks. In contrast, group F (52% viability) and S (3% viability) showed delayed development, requiring up to 8-12 weeks for a conclusive viability assessment. These results indicate significant differences in egg viability depending on the sample source and emphasise the need for longer incubation times, particularly for environmental samples such as sewage sludge. The study also highlights the limitations of single time point assessments based solely on egg structure, which can lead to misclassification. In conclusion, prolonged incubation improves diagnostic accuracy by allowing a clearer distinction between viable and non-viable eggs, especially in samples with initially uncertain viability.

Abstract: There is increasing evidence on the occurrence of Crithidia spp. in patients presenting either cutaneous or visceral leishmaniasis, solely or associated with Leishmania. We analyzed the influence of temperature in the growth rate and morphology of two Crithidia fasciculata strains (a reference strain and one isolated from a patient), and the effect of the co-cultivation of Leishmania and Crithidia in parasite isolation, in the infection of macrophages in vitro, and also in infections of hamsters, BALB/c mice and sandflies. In culture, both Crithidia strains could undergo 32oC for 96 h, although major morphological alterations and a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential were observed. At 34°C, there was an 80% reduction on the number of cells from the patient strain. Mixed cultivation of Crithidia-Leishmania led to the recovery of only Crithidia. In macrophages, C. fasciculata alone was virtually eliminated, and in the co-infection only Leishmania was recovered. The same was observed in vivo. Curiously, C. fasciculata is more resistant to Amphotericin B. Our results indicate that both C. fasciculata strains are unable to reproduce the pathogenic effect in vitro and in vivo models.

Abstract: Sterol biosynthesis is crucial for the function of biological membranes and an important target for anti-protozoan/anti-fungal drugs. In the trypanosomatid parasite Leishmania major, deletion of sterol C14-demethylase (C14DM) results in hypersensitivity to heat, increased plasma membrane fluidity, profound mitochondrial dysfunctions, and reduced virulence in mice. In this study, we show that C14DM-null mutants are defective in their tolerance to membrane disrupting agents and osmotic stress and their ability to form autophagosomes. In addition, C14DM-null mutants exhibit heightened sensitivity to anti-trypanosomatid drugs including antimony, ethidium bromide and pentamidine. Combination of itraconazole (a C14DM antagonist) and pentamidine synergistically inhibit the growth of Leishmania parasites. These findings reveal new insight into the roles of sterol synthesis in protozoan pathogens and highlight the potential of using drug combinations to achieve better treatment outcome.

Abstract:

The COVID-19 pandemic showcased the power of genomic surveillance in tracking infectious diseases, driving rapid public health responses, and global collaboration. This same infrastructure is being leveraged for malaria molecular surveillance (MMS) in Africa to tackle challenges like artemisinin partial resistance and Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 and 3 gene deletions. However, variability in reporting sequencing methods and data reporting is currently limiting the validation, comparability, and reuse of data. To maximize the impact of MMS, we propose minimal and optimal data for reporting that are key for validation and maximize transparency and FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles. Rather than focusing on specific data formats, here, we propose what should be reported and why. Moving to reporting individual infection-level polymorphism or microhaplotype data is central to maximizing the impact of MMS. Reporting must adhere to local regulatory practices and ensure proper data oversight and management, preventing data colonialism and preserving opportunities for data generators. With malaria’s challenges transcending borders, reporting and adopting standardized practices are essential to advance research and strengthen global public health efforts.

Abstract: Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, can show a variety of clinical outcomes ranging from mild symptoms to Chagas cardiomyopathy, the most severe and life-threatening manifestation of the disease. The degree of virulence is influenced by both parasite and host factors. In this study, we characterized a murine infection model using the T. cruzi Dm28c strain in BALB/c mice to assess disease progression. Infected mice showed a peak of parasitemia at 14 dpi, followed by a progressive decrease. Spleen weight increased up to sixfold compared to uninfected controls at 14 and 21 dpi, correlating with parasitemia levels. Histological analysis revealed focal inflammatory infiltrates in the heart starting at 7 dpi, with maximal intensity at 14 and 21 dpi. The expression of inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-1β, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β) in the spleen showed a dynamic profile, with an early increase during the acute phase. The Dm28c infection of BALB/c mice can be considered as a non-lethal Chagas disease experimental model, with detectable parasitemia during the acute phase and a controlled inflammatory response.

Abstract: The zoonotic disease fasciolosis poses a significant global threat to both humans and livestock. The causative agent of fasciolosis is Fasciola hepatica which is commonly referred to as liver fluke. The emergence of drug resistance has underscored the urgent need for new therapeutic treatments against F. hepatica. The tegument surface of F. hepatica is characterized by a dynamic syncytial layer surrounded by a glycocalyx which serves as a crucial interface in host-parasite interactions, facilitating functions such as nutrient absorption, sensory input, and defense against the host immune response. Despite its pivotal role, only recently have we delved deeper into understanding glycans at the host-parasite interface and the glycosylation of hidden antigens. These glycan antigens have shown promise for vaccine development or as targets for drug manipulation across various pathogenic species. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on the glycosylation of F. hepatica, exploring glycan motifs identified through generic lectin probing and mass spectrometry. Additionally, it examines the interaction of glycoconjugates with lectins from the innate immune systems of both ruminant and human host species. An enhanced understanding of glycans' role in F. hepatica biology and their critical involvement in host-parasite interactions will be instrumental in developing novel strategies to combat these parasites effectively. In the future, a more comprehensive approach may be adopted in selecting and designing potential vaccine targets, integrating insights from glycosylation studies to improve efficacy.

Abstract: Stomoxys calcitrans is a hematophagous fly species of veterinary importance, known for its nega-tive effects on animal health and productivity. Despite its impact, data on its ecology and activity in Algeria are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the monthly and daily dynamics of S. calci-trans in livestock farms in the Batna region and evaluate the influence of climatic factors on its abundance. From July 2022 to July 2023, Vavoua traps were placed monthly from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on four farms in the Batna region, representing different livestock types. Captured flies were iden-tified, sexed, and counted every two hours. Climatic data were collected both in situ and from NASA POWER datasets. Fly abundance was analyzed using non-parametric statistics, Spear-man’s correlation, and multiple regression analysis. A total of 1244 S. calcitrans were captured, mainly from cattle farms. Activity occurred from August to December, with a peak in September. Males were more abundant and exhibited a bimodal activity in September. Fly abundance was positively correlated with temperature and precipitation and negatively correlated with wind speed and humidity. This study presents the first ecological data on S. calcitrans in northeastern Algeria, highlighting its seasonal dynamics and the climatic drivers that influence it. The results highlight the species' preference for cattle and indicate that temperature and rainfall are key fac-tors influencing its abundance. These findings lay the groundwork for targeted control strategies against this neglected pest in Algeria.

Abstract: A parasitological study conducted in the peri-urban area of Bouaké, aims to control the main haemoparasites in cattle. A total of 240 blood samples were taken in 2021 from cattle of different breeds and age groups for the production of blood smears. These blood smears were fixed in 96% methanol for 3 to 5 minutes, then stained with diluted 10% Giemsa for 20 to 30 minutes and observed under a light microscope at immersion objective 100. Four species of haemoparasites specifically caused by ticks were observed: Anaplasma marginale (48.33%), Theileria spp (21.25%), Babesia bigemina (9.58%) and Anaplasma centrale (4.58%). Trypanosoma spp were not encountered. With the exception of B. bigemina, the statistical difference in prevalence was significant at the p-value threshold ≤ 0.05 at the sampling sites. In addition, A. marginale and Theileria spp differed significantly at p-value ≤ 0.05 according to season, with infection levels higher in the rainy season than in the dry season. Among cattle breeds, Theileria spp was more prevalent in the N'dama breed (28.8%). The difference in prevalence for this blood parasite is considered significant at p-value ≤ 0.05 at breed level. Further studies on haemoparasite vectors are needed for more effective integrated pest management.

Abstract: Leishmaniasis, a vector-borne disease caused by the parasite Leishmania, is a public health concern in Europe. Although Spain is an endemic country, it lacks a national surveillance network. To address this, the creation of a research and surveillance network is proposed, which would integrate data from various fields and enhance control and public health strategies. The first objective is to gather epidemiological data on vectors, reservoirs and transmission rates in Spain, with a particular focus on the role of dogs and wildlife as primary reservoirs. The plan includes establishing forums, databases, and specialised training programmes. The second objective is to improve case surveillance and reporting by establishing a comprehensive national registry. Implementing molecular diagnostics and bioinformatics tools will aid analysis of retrospective data and tracking of disease evolution. The third objective is to develop a standardised method for the molecular char-acterisation of Leishmania, using techniques such as PCR and genomic sequencing to de-tect virulence and resistance patterns. Key actions include collecting isolates, sharing an-alytical tools and providing genomic training. The fourth objective is to identify new therapeutic targets in response to toxicity and resistance to current treatments by studying specific enzymes (FeSOD, HDAC), metabolic pathways and natural products. Ultimately, establishing the Leishmaniasis Surveillance Network will support a 'One Health' ap-proach and promote interdisciplinary collaboration towards a national control plan.