VectorNet: A European network for sharing data on the geographic distribution of arthropod vectors, transmitting human and animal disease agents (2014–2017)

VectorNet is a joint initiative of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). The project supports the collection of data on vectors and pathogens in vectors, related to both animal and human health. The project provides also ad-hoc scientific advice to support ECDC and EFSA concerning technical questions about vector surveillance and vector-borne diseases in humans and animals. The project performs targeted entomological collections in specific vector habitats to fill knowledge gaps that have been identified through the previous project VBORNET. Through the EFSA/ECDC collaboration during the VectorNet project, communication and collaboration between experts and organisations from the medical and veterinary domains will be improved. The outcomes of the project will contribute to improving preparedness and rapid response for vector-borne diseases in the European Union.