Improving the diagnostic capacities of brucellosis, enhancing the vaccination and control strategies in the Middle East and North Africa

A regional workshop, sponsored by UN Development Program, to address brucellosis in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region, was held at the Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid-Jordan from 5-7 January, 2014. Forty-four key scientists from universities and governments in 5 countries (Jordan, Palestine, Egypt, Algeria, and Afghanistan) gathered to present and discuss various aspects of brucellosis surveillance and control. They were joined by Dr. Bruno Garin-Bastuji, Director of the OIE/FAO Reference Laboratory for Brucellosis, who provided helpful comments and guidance throughout. Using scientific presentations, laboratory sessions, and targeted discussion sessions, participants shared perspectives and gained valuable information on control of this important transboundary animal disease and public health problem. This paper describes highlighted discussion points and presents consensus summary statements regarding possible paths forward. © 2013 PVJ.