D4.5. - Vmerge Project

 VMERGE
WP.4 “ Surveillance, control methods and
strategies”
D.4.5. Risk-based surveillance
Lead beneficiary: FAO
Delivery date: 30/11/2015
Effective delivery date: 12/11/2015
1 D.4.5. Risk-based surveillance
Executive summary
In the framework of the Vmerge project, FAO organized a two-day training in Tunis, Tunisia, from 8-9
October, 2015. The training focused on preparedness for early detection and contingency planning of Rift
Valley fever (RVF).
The training was attended by 30 participants, including all REMESA network focal points from Algeria,
Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisia. REMESA (REseau MEditerranéen de Santé Animale) was created in
2009 to generate a common framework for work and cooperation, having the necessary capabilities to
assist and coordinate the development and implementation of animal health regional projects and
programs. The specific objective of REMESA is the improvement of prevention and control against the
major transboundary animal diseases and zoonoses through the strengthening of the national and
regional resources and capacities, and the harmonization and coordination of surveillance and control
activities Also present was one representative from both the veterinary services of Senegal and the OIE in Tunis.
The trainers came from Vmerge partner institutions, namely the Food and Agriculture Organization of the
United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with Agricultural Research for Development (CIRAD) in France, the
Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CReSA) in Spain, and the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale
dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "Giuseppe Caporale" (IZSAM) in Italy.
This training, highly participative, covered the topics of RVF surveillance, disease recognition,
establishing an early warning system, and contingency plan development. Participants had the
opportunity to learn from the experience of both Mauritania and Senegal in their responses to RVF
outbreaks and ongoing surveillance, prevention, and control programs. A desktop simulation exercise on
RVF was also organized.
At the end of training, participants expressed need for:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
the development of contingency plans for RVF;
clear guidance on the vaccination strategy;
the availability of vaccines;
capacity building for conducting risk modelling to determine the main risk areas (Tunisia,
Morocco, and Algeria).
FAO also reminded its commitment in assisting countries in disease surveillance. In this regard, the
development of a RVF surveillance manual is underway.
2 1.
Introduction
In recent decades, several vector-borne diseases (VBD) emerged or spread alarmingly in various nonaffected areas. These include for example the introduction of bluetongue and the Schmallenberg virus in
Northern Europe, as well as RVF in the Arabian Peninsula.
RVF is endemic in tropical regions of eastern, western and southern Africa. Epizootic outbreaks have
been registered in the West-African sub-region, hence an increasing risk of spreading to free areas,
especially in North Africa. RVF has a negative impact on public health as well as a severe socioeconomic impact on livelihoods, trade, and animal production locally.
For this reason, although it is difficult to precisely establish potential disease risk zones, it is important
that countries from the sub-region strengthen their national active and passive disease surveillance
systems in flooding areas, near rivers or dams, as well as in areas affected by RVF in the past.
In Africa, the occurrence of RVF has been associated with above average rainfall and climatic conditions
favorable for competent vectors. A better understanding of these factors will contribute to the
development of tools and more cost-effective preventive strategies which innovative and supported by
scientific data. These tools and strategies will in turn enhance overall preparedness to deal with the
emergence of these hazards. It is in this context that the Vmerge project was created with the main
purpose of identifying the risk of emergence of vector-borne diseases in Europe and in the
Mediterranean basin, and to implement improved monitoring strategies in this region and in the Sahel
region of Africa by strengthening North-South partnership.
It is in this regard that this training was organized to ensure capacity building of veterinary services
through the Mediterranean Animal Health Network (REMESA) on RVF surveillance, including transfer of
skills to detect, prevent, and control RVF. Also, a focus was given on risk modeling and risk mapping of
the disease in order to improve early detection and to optimize the prediction of RVF outbreaks based
on environmental and climate variables.
2.
Objectives of the training
- To deepen participants’ knowledge of RVF surveillance
- To identify surveillance strategies and implement an early warning system focused on risk analysis
- To introduce the different chapters of a RVF contingency plan
3.
Attendance
The training was organized for the REMESA network. All four focal points were present (epidemiology,
laboratories, socio-economic, and communications) from Algeria, Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisia.
Additional participants included a representative from the veterinary services of Senegal, who was
specifically invited to present the experience of Senegal in RVF prevention and control. As well, a
representative from the Institut de Recherche Veterinaire de Tunis (IRVT) along with OIE representatives
based in Tunis participated.
Presenters included representatives from the OIE, CIRAD, FAO office in Tunis (ECTAD Tunis), IZSAM,
CReSA, and FAO headquarters.
4.
The opening ceremony
The opening ceremony started with the welcoming remarks from Mohammed Bengoumi the FAO
ECTAD-Tunis Manager, and Rachid Bouguedour, the OIE sub-regional Coordinator. They both reminded
participants about the importance of the training at this crucial moment, considering the growing risk of
introduction of RVFV to the non-affected countries in the region. The FAO ECTAD manager also
presented other ongoing activities on RVF, among them FAO projects on RVF diagnostics and
awareness.
3 5.
Presentations
5.1.
Country presentations
All represented countries presented their ongoing programs and activities with regards to RVF
surveillance and control. Under the Vmerge project, Tunisia shared a plan for a RVF serological survey
to be carried out in certain areas of the country with results expected as soon as November 2015.
Algeria and Morocco are not performing any surveillance at the moment. Since 2011, Mauritania has set
up a surveillance system and an inter-sectorial committee that meets regularly to exchange information
on RVF – as well as on other zoonotic diseases - and to decide on the implementation of control
measures. Senegal brought to the audience its experience in dealing with RVF outbreaks and the
organisation of its surveillance system, which is essentially based on sentinel herds. Senegal has also
initiated a targeted vaccination campaign using an inactivated vaccine.
5.2.
Technical presentations
Various sessions were organized in an interactive manner to stimulate discussions and exchanges
among participants.
i)
Overview of the Vmerge project - Thomas Balenghien (CIRAD)
A brief introduction of the Vmerge project was given to participants including its objectives, main
activities, and expected outcomes. All were reminded that the primary goal of Vmerge is research, and
for this reason the first collaborators within REMESA countries are research institutions. Some of the
results that the project has reached so far are based on the definition of various models for vector
competency and the production of risk maps.
ii)
Recent RVF outbreaks in North-Western Africa - Alessandro Ripani (OIE)
An overview of the disease situation in North Africa was presented. Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria have
never reported RVF, the disease is sporadic in Egypt (especially due to an active livestock trade between
the Republic ofSudan and Chad), and endemic in West Africa, including Mauritania. The major pathways
for animal movements in the Maghreb region were presented, which represent a factor for possible
disease introduction. A special focus was given on Mauritania, especially with regards to the
reoccurrence of the disease in October 2013, plus the surveillance activities implemented mainly based
on sentinel herds. Specific identified needs for Mauritania include: (i) climate prediction models; (ii)
evaluation of the system of sentinel herds; (iii) optimization of ways to control vectors; (iv)
revitalization of passive and active surveillance; and (v) communication plans targeted based on the
public sector to be reached.
iii)
Introduction to RVF – Jordi Casal (CreSA)
A short introduction to RVF was presented, its etiology (the characteristics of the virus), evolution,
geographical distribution, and diagnostic tests.
iv)
Preventive methods - Ludovic Plee (FAO)
The disease cycle was described. A comprehensive example of Mauritania on the management of
recent outbreaks was presented. The operation strategies adopted by the Government of Mauritania
were also presented mainly involving: capacity building for veterinary personnel, early detection of
RVFV circulation, animal movement control, and control points at the abattoirs. An important message
presented was that good communication is the key to ensure biosecurity measures are properly
followed at the abattoirs to decrease the risks towards public health.
Some of the points raised evolved around the selection of the best vaccination strategy, vaccine
procurement, good risk communication for public health interests, and a specific focus on RVF
specificities in camels.
v)
RVF Experience of Senegal - Baba Sall (Veterinary Services of Senegal)
The presentation included the evolution of RVF in Senegal since 1987, where by now, the disease
cycles have become shorter, i.e. from 5-10 years to the current 2-3 year occurrence, and the different
control measures implemented under various projects. Senegal has elaborated a disease control plan
which includes a surveillance system based on sentinel herds and a vaccination trial using inactivated
vaccines in 2015, and the production and distribution of risk communication materials. Senegal has
4 also made some progress in dealing with RVF. However, there are still some gaps and limitations,
especially in understanding the epidemiology of the disease, vector control, and on vaccine availability.
vi)
Progress in Vmerge activities in Tunis - Emna Ayari (IRVT)
The presentation included a brief overview of IRVT’s activities, such as mosquito trapping and
identification, as well as sero-surveillance in risk areas, where 900 samples were collected. Results are
expected in November 2015. They are also working on RVF risk modelling and mapping for Tunisia.
vii)
Basic principles and components of a contingency plan and analysis of contingency plans of EU
countries and reference legislation (EU and OIE) for RVF preparedness – Paolo Calistri & Daria
Di Sabatino (IZSAM)
These presentations briefly introduced the generalities of contingency plans and requirements during
peace time, and the need to test and make adjustments to the plan before the occurrence of a disease
emergency.
In addition, a questionnaire on RVF was presented to participants. It aims to collect all relevant
information on RVF surveillance systems in Algeria, Mauritania, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. Data to
be collected are essentially on:
viii)
Livestock density (small ruminants and camels)
Information available on traceability of animal movements
Types of monitoring systems and control strategies in place
Diagnostic activities
Existing expertise and skills
Application training and support
Surveillance and early waning approaches for vector-borne diseases – Vladimir Grosbois
(CIRAD)
This presentation included the risk assessment methodologies applied to RVF and the production of risks
maps for the region. Different methods and models available were introduced, such as those integrating
various factors, e.g. rainfall, vegetation indexes for vector suitability coupled with animal density and
disease transmission modelling.
ix)
General discussion (all)
All sessions were followed by discussions and exchanges among participants. The main issues that arose
included the vaccination strategy to be adopted, the appropriate surveillance system for early detection
based on sentinel herds, as well as its applicability. Participants had an opportunity to learn from both
Mauritania and Senegal’s experiences.
x)
Simulation exercise & contingency plans – Clarisse Ingabire (FAO)
The presentations were concluded by a desktop simulation exercise where participants were divided into
four groups according to their countries. They discussed a scenario on the emergence of RVF and the
key actions to be undertaken at early stages of disease occurrence, taking into consideration different
aspects: surveillance, early warning and reporting, communication, funding, and collaboration with
neighbouring countries. Throughout the exercise, participants had the opportunity to review deficiencies
in terms of preparation in dealing with a RVF outbreak. Priority areas identified to be included in their
contingency plans include:
-
Disease reporting
Disease investigation
Communication tools
Biosecurity protocols
Surveillance at abattoirs
Capacity building for veterinary personnel
Laboratory capabilities (emergency kits, equipment’s, PPEs, etc.)
Design of an appropriate sentinel herd system for RVF surveillance
Identification of risk areas
Resource mobilization
5 xi)
The closing ceremony
The meeting was closed by the FAO Sub-regional representative in Tunis, who reminded participants
about FAO’s commitment to assist countries in the prevention and control of RVF, before distributing
participation certificates to all participants.
6.
Conclusion
The training was successfully concluded with an agreement of all countries participating to move ahead
in drafting contingency plans for RVF in collaboration with the ECTAD office.
In terms of support for surveillance programs, FAO renewed its commitment in assisting countries. In
this regard, FAO is working on a RVF surveillance manual, which will complement this training in
addressing the need for awareness and capacity building on RVF preparedness in the region.
FAO envisions presenting this manual to the REMESA network around September 2016, at the occasion
of the regular REMESA annual meeting. In addition, some other Vmerge results will be communicated
to the forum.
6 7.
Appendices
7.1 Annex 1: Agenda
EPIDEMIOLOGY TRAINING ON RIFT VALLEY FEVER (RVF) PREPAREDNESS: Contingency planning and surveillance for early detection, Tunis ‐ Tunisia DAY 1 – 08 October 8.00 – 8:30 8:30 – 9:00 Arrival of participants 
Opening Ceremony Welcoming remarks Mohammed Bengoumi (FAO) Rachid Bouquedour (OIE) 9:00 – 9.20 
Overview of Vmerge project Thomas Balenghien (CIRAD) 9.20 – 9.40 
Overview of RVF situation in North Africa Alessandro Ripani (OIE) 9:40– 10:00 Group photograph & Coffee/Tea break Plenary session 10:00 – 11:20 
Introduction on RVF and Prevention Methods 11.20 – 12.30 
Lessons learned from Senegal and Mauritania 12:30 – 13:30 Jordi Casal (CReSA) Ludovic Plee (FAO) (Baba Sall/Senegal) & (REMESA Focal point/Mauritania) Lunch break Plenary session 
Country presentations on current activities on RVF and other VBD (e.g. contingency plans, surveillance, etc.) 
Vmerge activities in Tunisia 13.30 – 14.00 14.00 – 14.30 Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Mauritania and Tunisia Emna Ayari (IRVT) Contingency plans 
14.30 – 15.15 15.15 – 15.30 
Basic principles and components of a contingency plan Analysis of contingency plans of EU countries and reference legislation (EU and OIE) for RVF preparedness Coffee/Tea break Paolo Calistri (IZSAM) Group exercise on RVF contingency planning 15.30 – 16.30 
Group work Clarisse Ingabire (FAO) 16.30 – 17.30 
Group presentations Facilitators 17:30 End of Day 1 7 DAY 2 – 09 October RVF Surveillance for early detection 08:30 – 09:00 
Different surveillances approaches Paolo Calistri (IZSAM) 09:00 – 09:30 
Targeted surveillance Ludovic Plee (FAO) 09:30 – 10: 00 
Risk maps & risk modelling Vladimir Grosbois (CIRAD) 10:00 – 10:30 
General discussion all 10:30 – 10:45 Coffee/Tea break RVF Surveillance for early detection 10:45 – 11:45 11:45 – 12:30 
Questionnaire on monitoring plans and the battle against Rift Valley fever(WP4) Daria Di Sabatino (IZSAM) 
Group work on contingency plans Jordi Casal (CReSA) 12:30 – 13:30 Lunch break Final session 13:30 – 14:30 
Group presentations and discussion Jordi Casal (CReSA) 14:30 – 15:30 
Draft basic elements for an early warning system Jordi Casal (CReSA) 
Presentation of certificates 15:30 – 17:00 Lamourdia Thiombiano FAO representative Thomas Balenghien (CIRAD) 
Closing remarks Lamourdia Thiombiano FAO representative 17:00 End 8 7.2 Annex 2: List of participants
Country
Names
Algeria
Hafsa Madani
Institution
Chef service virologie/Médecin
vétérinaire en chef
E-mail Adress
[email protected]
Institut national de la medecine
vétérinaire – laboratoire central
vétérinaire d’alger
Samira Douaissia
Point focal du réseau communication [email protected]
Direction des Services vétérinaires
Ministère de l’Agriculture, du
Développement Rural et de la Pêche
Leila Ramdani
Point focal du réseau socio-économie
[email protected]
Direction des Services vétérinaires
[email protected]
Ministère de l’Agriculture, du
Développement Rural et de la Pêche
Dalila Djaileb
Point focal du réseau épidémiologie
[email protected]
Direction des Services vétérinaires
[email protected]
Ministère de l’Agriculture, du
Développement Rural et de la Pêche
Morocco
MOUNIR KHAYLI
Medecin vétérinaire épidémiologiste/
Office national de securite sanitaire
des produits alimentaires (onssa)
[email protected]
MOHAMED EL FAQIR
Chef de service provincial de Oued
eddahab lagouira ONSSA/ Maroc
[email protected]
LEMSYH GHASSAN
Médecin Vétérinaire / Coordinateur
de la Cellule Avicol
[email protected]
ONSSA (Office National de Sécurité
Sanitaire des produits Alimentaires)
MAROC
Mauritania
Taoufiq BOUZID
Laboratoire Régionale d’Analyses et
de Recherches d’Agadir, ONSSA
(Office National de Sécurité Sanitaire
des produits Alimentaires) Maroc
[email protected]
Hamed Yedaly
Docteur Vétérinaire
Chef Service de la Santé Animale à
la Direction des Services
Vétérinaires au Ministère de
l'Elevage
[email protected]
Président de l'unité centrale du
Réseau Mauritanien d'Epidémio
surveillance des Maladies Animales
9 (REMEMA)
Point focal de l'Organisation
Mondiale de la Santé Animale (OIE)
pour les Produits Vétérinaires en
Mauritanie
BP:40197 Nouakchott - Mauritanie
Teslem Bourweiss
Chef de service
DPCSE/ME
Dedah Biram
Dr vétérinaire
suivi
évaluation
[email protected]
[email protected]
Direction de service (DSV)
Tunisia
Abdel wehad Navaa
Dr vétérinaire, Chef division
bactériologie au niveau du CNER
HAJ AMMAR Heni
Direction Générale des Services
Vétérinaires
de
Service de lutte contre les maladies
animales et les Zoonoses
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
n
EL FEKIH Oussama
Médecin vétérinaire sanitaire Institut
de la Recherche Vétérinaire de
Tunisie
[email protected]
ZARGOUNI Salma
Vétérinaire officiel
[email protected]
Direction Générale des Services
Vétérinaires
Mohamed
Baccar
Naceur
Médecin vétérinaire, inspecteur
régional
[email protected]
[email protected]
Centre National de veille zoosanitaire
Kalthoum Sana
Médecin vétérinaire principal
[email protected]
Centre National de veille zoosanitaire
Malek Zrelli
DGSV
Abdelhak Ben
Younes
IRVT
Chadia Sghaier
CNVZ
Soufian Sghaier
IRVT
[email protected]
Samir Abidi
CNVZ, médecin vétérinaire sanitaire
[email protected]
Kaouther Guesmi
CNVZ
[email protected]
Amira
Mkaouer
Point focal RELABSA/ DGSV
[email protected]
Point focal RECOMSA
[email protected]
Hajer Kilani
Nachi
10 Raouf Hmidi
Resource
persons
DGSV
[email protected]
CRDA Mahdia
[email protected]
Mehdi Elharrak
[email protected]
Eeva Tuppurainen
[email protected]
Omar Elyajouri
[email protected]
Faten Aouadi
Communication Officer
[email protected]
Bureau Sous Régional de la FAO
pour l’Afrique du Nord
Riadh Mansouri
Expert associé en Santé animale
[email protected]
Bureau Sous Régional de la FAO
pour l’Afrique du Nord
Afef Oueslati
Assistante programme
[email protected]
Bureau Sous Régional de la FAO
pour l’Afrique du Nord
Speakers
Ludovic Plee
FAO
[email protected]
CReSA
[email protected]
IZSAM
[email protected]
Thomas Berenghien
CIRAD
[email protected]
M.Vladimir Grosbois
CIRAD
[email protected]
Mme Daria di
Sabatino
IZSAM
[email protected]
M. Mohammed
Bengoumi
Responsable régional en Production
et Santé animales
[email protected]
Jordi Casal
Paolo Calistri
Bureau Sous Régional de la FAO
pour l’Afrique du Nord
Clarisse Ingabire
FAO
[email protected]
Baba Sall
Veterinary Services/ Senegal
[email protected]
Jocelin Merot
OIE -Tunisie
[email protected]
Rachid Bouguedour
OIE -Tunisie
[email protected]
Alessandro Ripani
OIE -Tunisie
[email protected]
Emna Fakhfakh
Médecin Vétérinaire Principal
[email protected]
Institut de Recherche Vétérinaire de
Tunisie
11 7.3 Annex 3: Photos of the training session
12