Research to better understand zoonoses
Within its laboratories, ANSES conducts research programs on zoonoses and develops diagnostic tools allowing in particular the detection and monitoring of these pathogens. This work advances knowledge of pathogens and their host interactions (virulence factors, mechanisms of action, etc.), on the species barrier crossing factors and on innovative control methods, including vaccines, which makes it possible to better understand zoonoses and to fight against them.
The food safety laboratory and the Ploufragan Plouzané Niort laboratory also study the biological agents that can be transmitted through food. Some of them are zoonoses, such as salmonella, Campylobacter, Bacillus, Clostridium, Staphylococcus or Listeria.
Support for monitoring and management measures
Some Agency laboratories also have national, European and international reference mandates on certain zoonoses. As such, they coordinate official surveillance networks for a number of zoonotic agents (Salmonella, Listeria, rabies, bovine tuberculosis, etc.). They are so guarantors of the analyzes carried out to detect pathogens. They also conduct research to improve detection methods.
In addition, through the expertise implemented within its expert committees “Animal health” and “Assessment of the biological risks of foodstuffs”, the Agency assesses the risks associated with micro-organisms, including those that cause zoonoses. This assessment work can be used in particular by the public authorities, for the development of regulations relating to the management of the risks associated with these agents. The expert committees can also give an opinion in the event of an epizootic on the risks of dissemination of the pathogen within animals and on the risks of transmission to humans, as well as on the control measures to be put in place to limit these risks.