The Brucellosis EURL missions

• Coordinate the methods employed in the MS for diagnosing brucellosis;
• Typing, storing and supplying strains of Brucella sp.
• Preparing, controlling and supplying EU Standard sera and other reference reagents to the NRLs (to standardise tests and reagents in the MS)
• Validating reference reagents (antigens and National Standard sera)
• Building up and maintain a sera bank, a collection of Brucella sp., and a database of strains isolated across the EU
• Organising periodical comparative tests of diagnostic procedures at EU level and operating laboratory proficiency tests of NRLs
• Collecting and collating data and information on the methods of diagnosis used and the results of tests carried out in the EU
• Characterizing Brucella sp by the most up-to-date methods available to allow greater understanding of the epidemiology of brucellosis
• Keeping abreast of development in brucellosis surveillance, epidemiology and prevention throughout the world
• Acquiring a thorough knowledge of the preparation and use of the products of vet. immunology used to eradicate and to control brucellosis including the evaluation of vaccines

• Facilitate harmonization of techniques throughout the EU, in particular specifying standard test methodologies
• Organise workshops for the benefit of NRLs, including training of experts from the MS and, as appropriate, from non-member countries, in new analytical methodologies.
• Provide technical assistance to the Commission, concerning in particular the standardisation of analytical methods and their implementation
• Perform research activities and whenever possible co-ordinate research activities directed towards improving control and eradication of brucellosis, specifically by:
• Carrying out or collaborating with NRLs in carrying out test validation trials
• Providing scientific advice to the Commission services and collecting information and reports associated with the activities of the EURL
• Assist actively in the diagnosis of brucellosis outbreaks in MS by receiving pathogen isolates for confirmatory diagnosis, characterisation and epidemiological studies;
• Facilitate the initial or further training of experts in laboratory diagnosis with a view to the harmonisation of diagnostic techniques throughout the EU;
• Collaborating, as regards diagnostic methods, with the competent laboratories in third countries where the disease is prevalent;
• Conduct initial and further training courses for the benefit of staff from NRLs and of experts from developing countries.