Epidemiological studies involve disease monitoring, risk analysis, systematic examinations...
PUBLIC INSTITUTION VETERINARY INSTITUTE OF THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA "DR VASO BUTOZAN"
92 years of existence
92 years of experience
92 years of tradition
92 years of quality
92 years of existence
Epidemiological studies
Epidemiological studies
Epidemiological studies involve disease surveillance, risk analysis, systemic testing, epidemic control, monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of measures, and overall health analysis.
animals and public health.
The Veterinary Institute of the Republika Srpska "Dr Vaso Butozan" (VIRSVB) conducts veterinary-epidemiological surveys and monitors the veterinary-epidemiological situation, monitors and analyzes the occurrence of infectious diseases, not only in the Republika Srpska and BiH, but also in the region, and based on that proposes certain measures.
In the past period, there have been several outbreaks or threats of outbreaks of certain infectious diseases, which required the activation of all mechanisms to prevent their occurrence and to suppress them if they occur. In addition to previously existing diseases such as rabies, brucellosis, trichinosis, etc., diseases such as bluetongue, avian influenza, lumpy dermatitis, African swine fever, etc. have appeared in these areas, and the current threat of the outbreak of peste des petits ruminants, which has been registered in Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece and Romania, is also real.
In all such situations, the VIRSBV assessed that it was necessary to carry out a comprehensive analysis of the occurrence and spread of certain diseases. Accordingly, the VIRSBV prepared certain veterinary-epidemiological studies, which were supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republika Srpska, and as an example of this are the epidemiological investigation of the spread of bluetongue disease in ruminants on the territory of the Republika Srpska, and before that for brucellosis and some other diseases. When the threat of the occurrence of African swine fever appeared, which at that time had not spread to the territory of the Republika Srpska, for preventive reasons, several educational meetings were held to train and strengthen laboratory capacities, and for the rapid recognition of the disease and the taking of appropriate measures. As before, VIRSVB proposed to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republika Srpska a plan for active
surveillance of classical and African swine fever during 2019. African swine fever appeared in 2023 in the Republika Srpska and caused very large economic damages, but,
свакако, ранија припрема допринијела да штета буде мања.
VIRSVB has implemented several studies for the purpose of combating certain infectious diseases, improving public health, or food and feed safety. Certain circumstances also occur that require VIRSVB to react quickly and adequately, such as, for example, floods or droughts when certain changes occur in food, which may endanger the health of consumers. An example of this is the emergence of the danger of mycotoxins (focus on aflatoxin) when several thousand samples had to be analyzed in a short time. VIRSVB worked non-stop in such situations, in order to reduce harmful consequences, primarily by providing a timely response on the correctness of the submitted samples. Subsequently, on several occasions, VIRSVB has nominated and implemented studies related to the occurrence of aflatoxin B1 in animal feed and M1 in milk, which were supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republika Srpska. The implementation of the latest measures and the realization of the set goals depend to a large extent on the education of all those involved. VIRSVB therefore conducts education of professionals and the general public on infectious diseases and food safety, through constant contacts with service users, farmers, veterinarians, representatives of the food industry and wholesalers. VIRSVB develops existing and finds new approaches to this issue. Epidemiological studies did not only relate to the analysis and monitoring of the situation in the field, but also to certain segments of improving laboratory diagnostics. As a unique scientific and professional institution in this field, VIRSVB monitors and analyzes the situation and introduces new diagnostic and analytical methods. All testing methods that are of particular interest to the Republika Srpska are accredited by VIRSVB, which refers to methods for early detection and confirmation of particularly dangerous diseases and methods for confirming the hygienic correctness and quality of food, animal feed and water. This is important for both producers and consumers, but it is also important for achieving the aspiration to export products to the European and world markets. Considering how important epidemiological studies are, which also involve education of experts and the public, VIRSVB is intensively striving to make these studies accessible and clear to everyone.
Epidemiological studies cover several key aspects:
Disease monitoring
The study of the spread of infectious and non-infectious diseases in animals, including pathogens and their reservoirs, encompasses various practices and methods for the identification, monitoring and analysis of diseases in animals. Disease surveillance involves the systematic collection of data on the occurrence of diseases in different animal species. Data is collected through veterinary organizations, veterinary inspection and agricultural organizations. This monitoring helps in the identification of new and recurring epidemics, as well as in understanding the causes of the spread of diseases. In addition to data from field veterinary services and laboratories, pharmaceutical data on the use of vaccines, antimicrobials and antiparasitic agents are also important. Data are also collected from governmental and non-governmental organizations such as animal statistics and marking agencies.
Establishing a surveillance system to monitor the disease is crucial, as follows:
– active surveillance, which involves regular and systematic examinations of animals to identify diseases before epidemics occur
– passive surveillance that relies on reports of suspected cases of disease from veterinarians and farmers.
Laboratory tests are essential for accurate diagnosis through:
– using methods such as PCR, ELISA and other serological tests to detect pathogens,
– pathogen monitoring involves regular testing of samples from animal populations to monitor the presence and incidence of certain diseases.
Epidemiological studies are various epidemiological designs used to understand the spread of disease:
– case studies help identify risk factors associated with the occurrence of disease by comparing sick and healthy animals
– Cohort studies study a group of animals over time to examine disease incidence and exposure factors.
Geographic and temporal analysis of disease surveillance often involves analyzing data in the context of time and space: –
– geographic information systems (GIS) are used to visualize and analyze spatial patterns of disease spread, which can help identify “hot spots” where the risk of disease is increased,
-Seasonality, i.e. analysis of weather patterns (e.g. increased incidence during certain seasons) can help predict disease outbreaks.
Communication and notification of the public and relevant sectors about the risk of disease is very important:
– creating regular reports on the epidemiological situation that are shared with government institutions, pharmaceutical companies, manufacturers and the public, educating veterinarians, farmers and the general population on recognizing symptoms and signs of the disease, as well as on prevention measures.
Various tools and technologies are used to analyze and understand data:
– data collection and analysis software to process large data sets (WIS), such as statistical software or specialized tools specific to epidemiology,
– visualizations through graphical displays that help understand trends and patterns, such as disease spread maps.
Technology is playing an increasing role in disease monitoring:
– mobile applications and sensors, i.e. the use of digital tools for monitoring the health status of animals in real time,
– telemedicine, i.e. connecting veterinary doctors with farmers for faster diagnosis and response to disease outbreaks.
These methods and approaches are essential for the timely identification and management of animal diseases, which is in the interest not only of animal health, but also of public health.
Risk analysis
The analysis is carried out by assessing the risk factors that contribute to the occurrence and spread of disease, such as: genetic factors, environmental conditions and human activity. Risk analysis focuses on identifying and assessing the factors that contribute to the occurrence of disease. This may include genetic predispositions, environmental and social factors. Risk analysis within epidemiological studies is essential for the identification, assessment and management of risks that affect animal health. This analysis allows for targeted action in the prevention and control of disease. Risk can be defined as the probability of an adverse event (e.g. disease) occurring and the consequences that result from that event. In the context of veterinary health, this concept refers to the chances of a disease occurring or spreading within animal populations. Risk identification includes recognizing various factors that may contribute to the development or spread of disease (pathogens, environmental factors, social factors, genetic factors).
Risk assessment is a systematic process that includes qualitative and quantitative assessment. After risk identification and assessment, the next step is the development of risk management strategies (implementation of measures, development of rapid action procedures, informing farmers and veterinary experts).
Effective communication is key to risk management, with due regard for the need for transparency and evidence-based approaches. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are important for a successful approach to risk analysis. Various tools and models are used in risk analysis, including statistical and mathematical models and geographic information systems (GIS). Risk analysis is supported by legislative and regulatory frameworks, which prescribe measures to protect animal health and public health (standards and guidelines of the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Comprehensive risk analysis is key to effective animal health management, reducing disease incidence and protecting public health.
Systematic studies
This involves using a variety of research methods including epidemiological studies (case-control), cohort studies, and cross-sectional studies. Epidemiological studies use a variety of research designs to gain insight into cause-and-effect relationships. Case-control studies compare animals that have a disease (cases) with those that do not (controls) to identify a potential cause. Cohort studies follow a group of animals over time to see how often a disease occurs with or without exposure to certain exposures. Cross-sectional studies analyze samples at a specific point in time to estimate the prevalence of the disease. Systematic studies in epidemiological studies are needed to understand the spread of disease among animals and to assess the causal relationships between risk factors and disease. These studies lead to the acquisition of data that can help in making decisions about public health and disease control. Systematic studies involve several key steps: defining the population, collecting data, and analyzing data. It is certainly important to adhere to ethical standards when conducting systematic studies. Systematic studies are essential in understanding and managing health issues among animals, allowing scientists and veterinarians to make decisions based on quality data.
Epidemic control
It includes planning and implementing measures for disease prevention and control, including vaccination, quarantine and sanitary measures. Epidemic control within epidemiological studies is a set of strategies and measures that are applied to prevent, suppress and control the spread of infectious diseases among animals. This area is crucial for the protection of animal health, the preservation of agricultural production and the protection of public health. Control strategies include monitoring and surveillance, vaccination, isolation and quarantine, sanitary measures, education and training. Rapid response to an outbreak involves investigating the source of infection, implementing control and issuing public health warnings. In the event of a disease outbreak, key measures include the use of technology and innovation, collaboration and partnership approaches, compliance with legislation and the role of policy, evaluation and review, and implementation of control measures. Epidemic control is a complex and dynamic process that requires the integration of knowledge from different disciplines, including epidemiology, veterinary medicine, public health, and policy.
Monitoring and evaluation of interventions
This aspect involves assessing the effectiveness of prevention and control measures that have been implemented to reduce the incidence of disease. This process is essential for guiding future actions and improving health programs. Monitoring and evaluating interventions is not only crucial for the success of disease control, but also allows for the improvement of animal and public health practices.
Animal health and public health,
It is the study of the interaction between animal health and human health, including zoonotic diseases.
Veterinary epidemiology plays a key role in linking animal health to human health (One Health approach). Regular monitoring of animal health helps in the rapid detection of diseases that can be transmitted to humans. Veterinarians and epidemiologists use reports from veterinary inspection and field veterinary services to identify potential sources of zoonotic diseases.
Prevention plays a key role in minimizing the risk of zoonoses. This requires regular implementation of all prescribed measures and education of experts and the public, with a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach and exchange of information between the disciplines involved. Environmental protection is also an important measure, especially in the face of evident climate change, urbanization and changes in land use.
It is not uncommon to hear that health has no price, but we should be aware that we must take care of our health and invest in it. The funds invested in preventive measures are smaller than the funds that must be invested in the fight against disease. While respecting all the above facts that should be kept in mind when applying epidemiological studies, we should know that disease is suppressed with money. We have learned this in the fight against infectious diseases so far (rabies, brucellosis, bluetongue, avian influenza, trichinosis, salmonellosis, African swine fever, etc.).
Throughout its existence, the VIRSVB has been the strongest link in the system of controlling infectious animal diseases and zoonoses and preserving public health. Even when infectious diseases or natural disasters occur, the VIRSVB has been ready and very responsibly approached all requests from the profession, the public, the Republika Srpska and Bosnia and Herzegovina. By responsibly fulfilling its obligations in its area of jurisdiction, the VIRSVB contributes to raising its reputation in the environment and beyond and instills confidence in the issue of animal health and public health.
Epidemiolic Studies VIRSVB
VIRSVB has implemented the following epidemiological studies, supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republika Srpska:
- Laboratory testing to protect the health, production and reproductive capabilities of dairy cows and prevent major economic losses from the harmful effects of mycotoxins and disrupted metabolic profiles.
- Monitoring for aflatoxins B1 and M1 due to the risk of occurrence in 2021-20.
- Capacity building and support for the improvement of standard procedures for reference laboratory diagnostics of Salmonella for the poultry sector - Mastering the requirements of ISO 6579-
- Determining the microbiological safety of water on farms.
- Food monitoring in flood-affected parts of Republika Srpska.
- Epidemiological study of bovine paratuberculosis in the territory of the Republic of Srpska.
- Bluetongue disease – determining its presence in the domestic animal population.
- Classical and African swine fever monitoring program.
- Leptospirosis – an emerging pathogen during natural disasters in the Republika Srpska: preliminary studies as a basis for disease control.
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