Keywords
Disease epidemiology, climate change, zoonoses,
policy, emerging infections
Expertise
Hosting the National Centre for Zoonosis Research
(
NCZR), Liverpool is a recognised centre for research into
the pathogenesis, transmission, public health impact and
control of infectious diseases that pass between animals
and humans. As the hub of a dynamic network, the NCZR
undertakes world-class research into zoonotic infections,
and is a catalyst for national and international collaborations.
The University has particular expertise in epidemiology;
we focus on the transmission and control of infectious
disease, and also provide research evidence for policy-
makers. Areas of study include the epidemiology of
zoonotic infections (food-borne pathogens, MRSA,
Clostridium difficile
)
and modelling the dynamics of
disease spread. These models, which take into account
variables such as climate change, disease emergence
and evolution, and infection processes, are critical for
investigating and forecasting the likely efficacy of
prevention, protection and control strategies before
or during epidemic outbreaks.
Our work also addresses problems of food security.
The UK needs to increase its animal production and
become more cost-effective, but without increasing
threats to human health through animal-to-human
infection (eg Salmonella). We are exploring methods to
raise animal production in ways that maintain or even
improve food safety and efficiency by lowering the burden
of endemic disease.
Liverpool is a leading UK centre for continuing professional
development (continuing professional development
(
CPD) of veterinary professionals, delivering a range of
courses in veterinary science and medicine. There are
real strengths in diagnostic assay development, some of
which are provided as a commercial service and others
that have been exploited by commercial partners. We also
have long-standing relationships with livestock, animal
health and the pharmaceutical industries.
Capabilities and facilities
•
Behavioural isolation unit for behaviour, zoonosis
and infection research
•
Diagnostic assay development
•
Zoonotic infection diagnosis service.
Relevant centres and groups
•
Centre for Genomic Research
•
National Centre for Zoonosis Research
•
Wood Park Farm.
Health & Wellbeing
26
4.2
Emerging and zoonotic infections
Also see:
Food Security & Safety
–
2.
Drivers of change, page 134
Environment & Climate Change
–
3.3
Climate change and emerging
infections, page 64
For further information
on all our specialist
centres, facilities and
laboratories
go to page
179
