Symposium 2: Spread of infectious and allergic diseases

Climate changes are predicted to have significant impacts on ecosystems and the organisms they contain, particularly through changes in precipitation and rising temperatures. In principle, it can be assumed that anthropogenic climate change, in addition to globalisation, will lead to expanded distribution areas of many species in previously colder regions. Alongside, it is expected that infectious and allergic diseases induced by “new” pathogens or allergens may appear or occur more frequently in areas where they are currently not or seldom observed. In this workshop, we will discuss the current status of vector borne diseases and workplace-related allergies as well as protective measures in practice today and in perspective for the future. Research gaps are to be identified, suitable measures derived and potentials for future international cooperation discussed in order to enable healthy and safe working under the dynamic conditions of climate change.

Moderators:

• Dr Philipe Duquenne
  Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité - INRS, France
• Professor Monika Raulf
  Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA), Germany

Speakers:

• Professor Jan C. Semenza
  Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH), Germany
• Professor Isabella Annesi-Maesano
  Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale - INSERM, France