Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002113/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (Renew)
The withdrawal of the United States from the World Health Organization raises serious concerns about our ability to monitor and prevent zoonotic disease outbreaks. We are losing critical data and research from our American partners at a time when the risk of zoonotic spillovers is increasing globally.
Recent reports on the H5N1 bird flu strain have documented its cross-species transmission to pigs and cattle, subsequently resulting in 70 human cases and 1 death in the United States since 2024. Scientists warn that these risks are particularly severe in countries with high livestock densities. In such environments, large numbers of animals are kept in confined spaces with limited genetic diversity and compromised immune systems, creating ideal conditions for viral pathogenesis and transmission.
- 1.What measures has the Commission taken to compensate for the loss of American data?
- 2.Has the Commission identified and mapped high-risk geographical areas in Europe for zoonotic disease outbreaks, including regions with high livestock densities?
- 3.If so, what specific prevention and mitigation plans have been developed for those identified high-risk areas to prevent zoonotic spillovers?
Submitted: 27.5.2025