External research facility Valtice

Research priorities

Our research is mainly focused on ecology and eco-epidemiology of zoonotic microorganisms with main emphasis on emerging and re-emerging pathogens. The role of endotherm vertebrates (host of pathogenic agents) and haematophagous arthtropods (biological vectors) in circulation ot zoonotic pathogens as well as natural and soci-economic factors driving emergence of particular infections are intensively explored.

Reasearch facility in Valtice is well-equipped with state-of-the-art molecular devices as well as modern animal facility fulfilling all safety measures which are needed for handling with laboratory animals.

Issues addresed:

• isolation and identification of novel microorganisms including human pathogens (microbe hunting);
• ecology of arthropod-borne microorganisms (e.g., West Nile and tick-borne encephalitis flaviviruses, spirochaete Borrelia burgdorferi, rickettsia Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and protozoan Babesia spp.);
• implementing 'One health' concept for studying emerging zoonoses;
• risk of introduction of new mosquito invasive vectors and mosquito-borne diseases into territory of Central Europe;
• expert advice regarding prevention and control of zoonoses (contribution to preventive human and veterinary medicine);
• expert opinion on emerging infectious diseases.