CA25142 - One Health European Network for Leptospirosis and Rodent-Borne Threats (ONE-LEP)

Leptospirosis is produced by Leptospira spp. and presents a major public and animal health, and ecological issue in Europe. With the present situation being defined by the pathogen’s complex ecology and transmission, increasing trend of human cases in recent years (5% annually), increasing rodent populations, increasing chemical resistance to rodenticides, growing societal demand for humane control of rodents, inconsistent surveillance and diagnosis leading to underestimated disease burden, limited vaccine options and efficacy, and insufficient cross-sectoral integration, the main challenge is to protect human and animal health by considering a One Health (OH) framework.

To address this gap, ONE-LEP will establish a network of excellence for integrating, harmonising and disseminating existing knowledge, as well as developing innovative services and tools. This will improve the accessibility of knowledge and healthcare across Europe and beyond. By targeting leptospirosis through a transdisciplinary framework – integrating human, veterinary, environmental, and wildlife health – the Action fosters the infrastructure, partnerships, and scientific momentum to address the broader rodent-pathogen interface.

ONE-LEP is comprised of five working groups that will coordinate existing and emerging leptospirosis-related activities in Europe. The Action includes professionals from diverse disciplines and sectors  -academia, government, NGOs – and spans EU full member, Cooperative, Partner, Near Neighbour and International COST countries. It promotes gender balance and prioritises the active involvement of Young Researchers and Innovators, especially from underrepresented groups and ITC countries.

The overarching goal is to advance healthcare systems, inform policy, and improve outcomes for both humans and animals affected by leptospirosis.