After obtaining his degree in Veterinary Sciences at Utrecht University, Wim van der Poel went on to do a PhD on virus infections in cattle. Since then, he has been researching animal diseases and zoonoses. First at the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and Environment) and later at Wageningen Bioveterinary Research (WBVR). ‘I consider the discovery of health threats to animals and humans critical, as well as minimising the risks. This is also relevant to animal health. During the outbreaks of avian influenza and African swine flue, hundreds of millions of animals were culled. This is something we want to prevent. I have always been fascinated by zoonoses. The novel coronavirus brings forth new research questions. Our research really matters, and this is very motivating.’
Diseases that can be passed from animals to humans are able to spread more rapidly due to globalisation and urbanisation. Therefore, early detection can save lives. Wageningen virologists are collaborating with veterinarians to detect potential pathogens in wildlife and livestock as early as possible. Researchers unravel the genetic makeup of…