Coordination of diagnostic methods in consultation with the Commission by means of storing and supplying cell cultures, virus strains (CSFV strains and ruminant pestiviruses), standardized sera (e.g. for ELISA quality control or PCR validation) and other reference reagents such as monoclonal antibodies
Training and retraining of experts in all fields of laboratory diagnosis with a view to harmonize diagnostic techniques (workshops and individual training)
Organisation of comparative tests (inter-laboratory comparison tests) of diagnostic procedures at Community level
Organisation of annual meetings to discuss current matters of surveillance, epizootiology and prevention of CSF
Provision of trained personnel for emergency situations occurring within the community
Research activities and coordination of research activities towards an improved control and understanding of CSF
Building up and maintenance of a classical swine fever virus collection and gene database. At the moment over 1000 virus isolates from all over the world are typed and included in this collection.
Provision and retaining expertise on CSF and related matters
