A previous collaboration between the Fhealinc partners and Nutreco Masterlab (research on MRSA) showed that the exchange of expertise led to a powerful collection of knowledge (chain approach), resulting in specific added value with regards to animal husbandry, health care and education.
The problems associated with animal diseases (zoonoses) show a strong increase - think of Q fever, MRSA, ESBL and so on. The North Brabant region has a very special position in this development, given the large size of factory farming in our region and the recent emergence of Q fever in the region on a scale never before seen worldwide. Hence, there is increasing (structural) focus on risks to human health especially in North Brabant.
Our region has the potential to distinguish itself by translating scientific knowledge (being developed by institutions such as RIVM and WUR) into economic sectors. The necessary building blocks are available in this region, like a strong food processing industry, SME-oriented knowledge institutions such as HAS Den Bosch, ZLTO and innovative care including the Jeroen Bosch Hospital.
There are several initiatives, both nationally and regionally, that focus on these issues. Both governments and (care) institutions have determined that no or insufficient cohesion and cooperation exists between these initiatives. Therefore, there is a need for a “knowledge center for diseases” in Brabant in the long run.
It is further noted that the (regional) information provided to hospitals, doctors, veterinarians, but also to farmers and regional citizens and consumers, needs improvement. Knowledge needs to be gathered and the correct information needs to be passed to the various partners in order to allow for streamlining of information and to avoid duplication. Moreover, there are opportunities for collaboration between various parties to take up or intensify.
These objectives can only be achieved if businesses also join in and contribute to the prevention of - and intervention with - the risks of animal diseases to the physical condition in general and those of the immune system in particular.
This project was made possible by 's-Hertogenbosch and the 5-Star Region.