Criteria for the inclusion of diseases, infections and infestations in the OIE list

Article 1.2.1.

Introduction

This chapter describes the criteria for the inclusion of diseases, infections and infestations in Chapter 1.3.

The objective of listing diseases is to support Member Countries by providing information needed to take appropriate action to prevent the transboundary spread of important animal diseases, including zoonoses. This is achieved through transparent, timely and consistent notification.

Each listed disease normally has a corresponding chapter that assists Member Countries in the harmonisation of disease detection, prevention and control and provides standards for safe international trade in animals and their products.

The requirements for notification are detailed in Chapter 1.1.

Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic tests are described in Chapter 1.1.5. of the Terrestrial Manual.

Article 1.2.2.

The criteria for the inclusion of a disease, infection or infestation in the OIE list are as follows:

1. International spread of the pathogenic agent (via live animals or their products, vectors or fomites) has been proven.

AND

2. At least one country has demonstrated freedom or impending freedom from the disease, infection or infestation in populations of susceptible animals, based on the provisions of Chapter 1.4.

AND

3. Reliable means of detection and diagnosis exist and a precise case definition is available to clearly identify cases and allow them to be distinguished from other diseases, infections or infestations.

AND

4. 1. Natural transmission to humans has been proven, and human infection is associated with severe consequences.

   OR

   2. The disease has been shown to have a significant impact on the health of domestic animals at the level of a country or a zone taking into account the occurrence and severity of the clinical signs, including direct production losses and mortality.

   OR

   3. The disease has been shown to, or scientific evidence indicates that it would, have a significant impact on the health of wildlife taking into account the occurrence and severity of the clinical signs, including direct economic losses and mortality, and any threat to the viability of a wildlife population.