Hafidh Akkari

Ecole Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi thabet

Tunisia

Working Groups: WG2, WG3

Scientific Expertise: Parasitology

Contribution: To actively participate in the current Action, we select the Working Group 2 and 3 for cooperation. Biosecurity measures are based on the understanding of infectious diseases and also on the understanding of the particularities of each livestock production system, therefore, our expertise on the field of epidemiology can help all groups. In another side, our working group will try to 1. understanding how biosecurity measures are applied in the different cattle, scheep and poultry production systems In Tunisia in order to identify existing knowledge gaps and ways for improvement 2. Participate with specialistes for determining the economic and health benefits of implementing biosecurity measures in the tunisian context. 3. Participate on the Online survey to identify existing biosecurity improvement programs.

Motivation: In Tunisia, chemical products are widely used in controlling parasitic diseases. However, due to the constraints associated to their use, acaricides; insecticides and anthelmintics appeared as the less pertinent control option in a predictive benefit-cost analysis carried out in the Tunisian context. Moreover, this approach has limitations including the selection of resistant organisms and contamination of milk and meat products with drug residues. Biosecurity in Tunisia has emerged as an alternative strategy for the control of foodborne diseases. and, consequently, to preserve the health of farmed animals. In Tunisia the implementation of biosecurity measures in animal production system remains very low. Therefore, it is necessary to induce sustainable collaborations with the aim to advance knowledge and understanding how biosecurity measures are applied in Europe specially in production systems. In addition, young researchers in our veterinary laboratory need to be trained in innovative tools and surveillance systems via knowledge exchange.

Scientific Background: Tunisia is a Mediterranean country and represents a privileged economic partner in several European countries. Particularly several exchanges take place between the two areas in terms of food and especially tourists whose number exceeds 5 million / year. Additionally, Tunisia is a developing country that has not completely developed procedures for hygiene of food especially meat and their derivatives; it is therefore an interesting model to understand the actual epidemiology of foodborne pathogens and conclude on the appropriate biosecurity measures under these conditions. Improuve biosecurity measures represents in Tunisia a major component of any programme aiming at developing sustainable livelihoods for Tunisian population. In this context, the project Cost Action CA 20103 represents an excellent opportunity for developing scientific exchanges and cooperation and building capacity to improve the introduction and spread of pathogens

Hafidh Akkari

COST

Action CA20103

Action Details