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Katarina Vilgert

Veterinary epidemiologist and ECDC Expert on infectious diseases and zoonotic pathogens, with expertise in avian influenza pandemic preparedness.

Jul 22, 2026

NiklasHOST
14:40
Maybe, Katarina, could you tell us a little bit more when we're right now, what is the baseline scenario and what actions are relevant to take right at this point?
14:50
So when it comes to any zoonotic infection, it starts with prevention at the animal levels.
14:56
So at a farm, first of all, biosecurity and biosafety measures to reduce the risk of human exposure to infections that can transmit between animals and humans.
15:08
as well as having preventive measures in place, such as personal protective measures that are adapted to the working environment where farmers are working.
15:22
It also comes down to communication, so raising awareness of how individuals can reduce the risk of exposure and infection.
15:32
And this includes both the general public, so avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and this is both general public and those that have for example backyard poultry and if they would find dead birds to contact the relevant authorities or their own veterinarian for safe collection and further investigation if this is considered needed depending on the circumstances.
16:02
At the farm level, it's about being aware of the risk of infection and how it can be reduced.

7 MINS LATER

NiklasHOST
22:50
Can you tell us a little bit more about ECDC's role?

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