Context

Global infectious disease outbreaks are of increasing concern for the international community. Reactive surveillance systems with rapid detection capacities, close coordination between human and animal health authorities and efficient reporting to other key sectors are required to ensure a rapid and effective response. Also the potential unauthorized acquisition, theft, transfer or intentional misuse of high-risk biological materials, especially pathogens, pests and biological toxins with dual-use possibilities, whether in relation to illicit trafficking, bioterrorism or agro-terrorism need to be quickly tackled in the region.

Objective

The aim of BIOSEC is to provide a set of recommendations for improving biosecurity management system in South East Asia with effective tools to enhance capabilities to respond to highly communicable diseases or global catastrophic biological events, such as pandemics.