News Release
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Contact: Ben Richey |
NIAA Symposium to Focus on Zoonotic DiseasesBOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) is hosting a focused symposium in conjunction with its 2005 Annual Meeting in St. Paul, Minn. Protecting the Global Food Supply: Growing Concerns for Emerging Zoonotic Diseases will be held on April 7 at the Radisson Riverfront Hotel. The symposium will be a collaborative discussion including producers, veterinarians, government officials, food company representatives and academicians. The agenda involves a broad range of stakeholders, from animal and human health disciplines, which will gather to address the new epidemiological challenges of animal-human interactions. “We’re entering a new era for addressing zoonotic diseases,” said NIAA Chairman of the Board Rick Sibbel, D.V.M. “NIAA has identified a need for all industry sectors to come together to discuss the many human-animal interactions and other factors that must be understood to avoid emerging zoonotic diseases and threats to our food supply in the future.” Avian Influenza is an example of a zoonotic disease that may be emerging as a pandemic threat. It is clear from this example that these challenges have worldwide implications on animal production, the food supply and human health. Veterinarians, animal health and public health officials can have a significant impact through epidemiological investigations. “Engaging with groups such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of Homeland Security, USDA, APHIS’ Wildlife Services and others can enhance our ability to mitigate the impact of zoonotic diseases,” said Sibbel. The program will feature several keynote speakers from the U.S. and abroad to discuss growing concerns of zoonotic diseases on a global platform. Other highlights include lessons from past experience, strategies for enhancing global food system protection and a panel of individuals involved with Minnesota’s collaborative efforts between industry, government and university to protect the global food supply. The symposium is co-sponsored by the National Center for Food Protection and Defense and the Center for Animal Health and Food Safety at the University of Minnesota. The agenda is scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., followed by a reception. For more information on the symposium, including speakers and registration, go to www.animalagriculture.org or call 270-782-9798. The National Institute for Animal Agriculture provides a forum for building consensus and advancing solutions for animal agriculture and provides continuing education and communication linkages to animal agriculture professionals. NIAA is dedicated to programs that: work towards the eradication of diseases that pose risk to the health of animals, wildlife and humans; promote a safe and wholesome food supply for our nation and abroad; and promote best practices in environmental stewardship, animal health and well-being. Visit us on the Internet at www.animalagriculture.org, or call 270-782-9798. # |