New Research Facility Established to Combat Zoonotic Diseases

The Helmholtz Institute for One Health (HIOH) has begun construction on a new research facility in Greifswald, focusing on the health interactions between humans, animals, and the environment. This innovative building is set to enhance research efforts aimed at identifying and preventing zoonotic diseases--those diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans.

Since its establishment in 2021, the HIOH has worked diligently to address health risks posed by zoonotic infections, including notable concerns like COVID-19. The institute is also investigating the growing issue of antimicrobial resistance, which poses significant challenges to public health.

Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's Minister President highlighted the crucial role of environmental and climatic factors in the transmission of infectious diseases between species. She noted that much remains to be explored in this field, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive research efforts.

The founding director of the HIOH, who previously worked with the Robert Koch Institute, has extensive experience in investigating the origins of pandemics, including efforts related to Ebola outbreaks in Africa and the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, the institute operates from various locations within the University of Greifswald and the University Medicine Greifswald.

The new research facility is being funded by both federal and state governments, amounting to a total investment of 38 million euros. Once completed, the building will accommodate approximately 120 researchers and will include high-security laboratories designed for work with infectious pathogens, including those requiring biosafety level 3 containment.

The HIOH collaborates closely with the University of Greifswald, University Medicine Greifswald, and the Friedrich Loeffler Institute to advance its research goals. The new building is expected to significantly boost Greifswald's reputation as a global leader in One Health research, making it a focal point for international scientific collaboration.