VERPI

The Global Viral Ecosystem Research and Preparedness Initiative

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Project Description

The Global Viral Ecosystem Research and Preparedness Initiative (VERPI) is a comprehensive research programme designed to address challenges posed by emerging infectious diseases (EIDs). This initiative aims to establish a robust global research infrastructure for pandemic preparedness and response through strategic partnerships between four European research organisations and six international academic institutions across Asia, Africa, and North America.

Infectious disease of the last decades

Over the last three decades, the world has witnessed the accelerated (re-)emergence of infectious diseases (ID) particularly viral outbreaks originating from zoonotic transmissions. Prior to SARS-CoV-2 emergence (2019), the global health community had faced numerous emerging viruses from diverse geographical origins including SARS-CoV-1 (China), MERS-CoV (Middle East), West Nile virus (Uganda), Ebola virus (South Sudan), chikungunya virus (Tanzania), dengue virus (Africa and southeast Asia), Zika virus (Uganda and Tanzania), and swine influenza A virus (H1N1) (Central Mexico). The persistent threats posed by zoonotic viruses including influenza, Marburg, mpox, Ebola, and Oropouche have further exposed systemic vulnerabilities in global health preparedness. They pose significant risks of spreading globally among immunologically naïve populations as shown by the COVID-19 pandemic with 777,310,393 and 7,083,246 reported cases and deaths worldwide (05-01-2025).

Reasons for Infectious disease outbreaks

The emergence of ID is driven by a complex interplay of human activities and environmental changes. Climate change, deforestation, biodiversity loss, and intensive animal farming disrupt ecosystems facilitating spillover events. Demographic shifts, urbanization and aging populations, combined with global travel/trade, accelerate the spread of viruses. Socioeconomic factors, conflicts, and dis- and misinformation further amplify the impact of pandemics.

Despite progress in cross-sectoral coordination through European and global policy frameworks, the research and innovation (R&I) landscape for EID remains fragmented and predominantly discipline-specific. Unequal access to advanced technological platforms further constrains the development of adaptive solutions and contributes to persistent gaps in translational research and equitable access to innovation. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated, interdisciplinary R&I efforts for translating scientific advancements into practical, globally accessible solutions for ID prevention and control.

“Triple I” Framework

VERPI’s innovative “triple I” —interdisciplinary, international, and intersectoral—framework leverages diverse expertise, transcends national boundaries, and bridges academic and clinical sectors. Central to VERPI’s strategy are embedded secondments, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and a dynamic approach to translational research in emerging viral epidemics. This promotes a broad R&I platform for rapid response to future viral threats, supporting EU Sustainable Development Goals to strengthen early warning systems and health risk management capacities globally.