Long recognized as a global leader in scientific and technical expertise to address problems relating to African swine fever (ASF), Canada can now claim one of seven laboratories in the world designated as a World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) Reference Laboratory.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease (NCFAD) in Winnipeg was deemed a WOAH Reference Laboratory last week, CFIA reports. WOAH Reference Laboratories are internationally recognized centers of expertise on specific animal diseases.
CFIA’s Dr. Aruna Ambagala was also recognized as Canada’s designated expert for ASF.
“These laboratories play a critical role in the international monitoring and control of animal diseases, in applied research, as well as in providing support for diagnosis, training and advice to member countries,” CFIA reports. “This designation by the WOAH is a sign of Canada’s scientific excellence and demonstrates Canada’s increasing ability, capacity, and readiness to detect and respond to an outbreak of ASF as well as support global efforts to manage the disease,”
The NCFAD is also designated as a WOAH Reference Laboratory for classical swine fever, highly pathogenic and low pathogenic avian influenza in poultry, and foot-and-mouth disease.
“This network of laboratories and the work of their scientists are essential to protect the health and well-being of people, animals, and the economy, both in Canada and internationally,” CFIA reports.
ASF currently does not have a cure. Although it does not infect humans and poses no food safety risk, it does pose a significant risk to the health of swine herds, the pork industry and the global economy.
