Building capacity and transferring knowledge on the effects of climate change on infectious diseases and health is a key objective in IDAlert. That’s why IDAlert, in collaboration with the Pandemic and Disaster Preparedness Center (PDPC), the Department of Viroscience – Erasmus MC and One Health PACT, organised an international Summer School on “One Health and the Effects of Climate Adaptation on Health” from 12-16 August 2024 in Rotterdam. The course was attended by 30 participants from diverse academic disciplines and countries of origin.
The programme offered a unique platform for participants to engage with cutting-edge research being conducted in Rotterdam, with a focus on the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, particularly in the context of climate change. The immersive experience included fieldwork at the Natural History Museum and Blijdorp Zoo, where participants conducted hands-on research on birds and mosquitoes. They were introduced to innovative techniques, such as the use of sound for bird identification and advanced mosquito traps that automatically count and identify species.
Throughout the programme, participants had the privilege of attending presentations and talks by a distinguished lineup of experts, including:
- Prof. Dr. Marion Koopmans (Erasmus MC, NL)
- Prof. Dr. Joacim Rocklöv (Heidelberg University, GER)
- Prof. Dr. Pier Siebesma (Delft University, NL)
- Prof. Dr. Quirine ten Bosch (Wageningen University, NL)
- Dr. Reina S. Sikkema (Erasmus MC, NL)
- Dr. Marina Treskova (Heidelberg University, GER)
- Dr. Maarten Schrama (Leiden University, NL)
- Dr. Bas Oude Munnink (Erasmus MC, NL)
- Dr. Lineke Begeman (Erasmus MC, NL)
- Dr. Henk van der Jeugd (Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), NL)
- Dr. Erik Kleyheeg (Sovon Dutch Centre for Field Ornithology, NL)
- Dr. Floris Bogaard (Deltares, NL)
- Dr. Alex Richter-Boix (Centre de Recerca Ecològica i Aplicacions Forestals (CREAF), SP)
- Cedric Marsboom (Avia-GIS, BE)
- Johan Verlinde (Municipality of Rotterdam, NL)
These experts shared invaluable insights into various aspects of One Health and climate adaptation, significantly enhancing participants’ understanding of the challenges and opportunities in these fields.
The Summer School also fostered collaboration with key stakeholders such as Blijdorp Zoo, the Municipality of Rotterdam (Rotterdam Weerwoord), and GGD Rotterdam. These partnerships offered participants real-world perspectives on how cities like Rotterdam are addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
Overall, the summer school was a highly enriching experience, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary and international collaboration in addressing global health challenges. The insights gained and connections made during this programme will undoubtedly contribute to future research and initiatives in the field of One Health.
For any questions about the Summer School, please contact Dr. Reina S. Sikkema: r.sikkema(at)erasmusmc.nl
