Arthropod-borne

Dear colleagues,

It is a great pleasure to invite you to the Symposium "Arthropod-borne Infectious Diseases and Arthropods as disease agents in human and animal health", which is jointly organized by the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina and the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.

Growing globalization of trade, climate change and expanding worldwide travel activity increase the risk to import formerly exotic arthropods to Europe as well as to introduce pathogens which are transmitted by arthropods. Thus, in recent years various invasive mosquito species were detected in Europe, for example the Japanese bush mosquito or the Asian tiger mosquito, which have a high vector competence for various pathogens. The presence of several new arthropod-borne viruses and exotic nematodes document an increasing entry of these pathogens. Regarding arthropod pests especially the appearance of the small hive beetle in Italy causes concern.

A basic prerequisite for the successful control of arthropods and the pathogens they transmit is to conduct coordinated research in the areas of biology, epidemiology, and not least to revise arthropod taxonomy using new OMICS technologies. In recent years, a variety of studies in different countries have been performed. This symposium will bring together internationally recognized experts in the fields of taxonomy, epidemiology, vector and pathogen research and biology of arthropod pests in order to promote scientific exchange between the individual disciplines and to support coordinated programs.

The symposium will be held from 1-3 October 2015 in Berlin. We are sure that the lively capital of Germany will be the perfect place to create a stimulating atmosphere of exciting talks, inspiring discussions, and scientific curiosity.

We are looking forward to meeting you all in October 2015 in Berlin for a successful and stimulating symposium!

With kind regards, 
Yours sincerely,