ERA net LEAP Agri LEARN (BO-43-113-004, BO-43-003.02-008)

The increase in frequency and size of outbreaks caused by arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) is attributed to globalization and climate change. Most arboviruses that have emerged in the past decades find their origin in Africa (Bluetongue virus, Zika virus). In Africa, much knowlegde on these viruses is available, whereas effective control tools are generally lacking. Within the Long-term Europe-African Research Network (LEARN), scientists from Africa share their knowledge on arboviruses and scientists from Europe share their knowledge about innovative control tools. The scientists will together develop and implement diagnostic assays that can be used to monitor prioritized arboviruses that threaten veterinary and human health in both Africa and Europe. The second major objective of LEARN is to educate master and PhD students through international lectures and internships and to raise awareness among stakeholders including farmers, the pharmaceutical industry and policy makers. At the end of the project, both Europe and African will be better prepared for arboviral outbreaks.