International FMD Vaccine Strategic Reserves Network
Development of the IVSRN
In 2004 The OIE convened an ad hoc meeting on antigen and vaccine banks. This group aspired to facilitate information exchange, assist countries in the establishment of vaccine banks via creation of vaccine bank networks.
In 2010, Dr Jef Hammond presented the network concept to the Quadrilateral Animal Health Committee (Quads) group at OIE HQ prior to the general session. Presentations were also made to the European Union (represented by Dr Alf Fuessel) and the UK Chief Veterinary Officer (Dr Nigel Gibbens) and the UK Department for Farming and Rural Affairs (Defra).
The concept was favourably received and development of the network endorsed by all parties and the title of International Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccine Strategic Reserves Network’ (IVSRN) was agreed and was strongly endorsed by the OIE and FAO.
Membership of the IVSRN is Australia, Canada, Mexico (NAFMDVB), New Zealand, United Kingdom, United States and the World Reference Laboratory for Foot-and-Mouth Disease.
Aims of the IVSRN
- Improved control of Foot-and-Mouth Disease worldwide
- Sharing of information and best practices
- Avoid duplication of work; saving time and money
- Monitoring of developments relating to emergency Foot-and-Mouth Disease vaccines and promotion of areas of research.
- Provide a unified voice in discussions with vaccine manufacturers
- Potential to share banked antigens through a ‘virtual international Foot-and-Mouth Disease vaccine bank.’
Documents for members of the IVSRN can be found on a sharpoint site (follow the link below).