©Dániel Cadar

New working group

Detect zoonoses early, prevent outbreaks

How do new viral diseases develop - and how can the risk of zoonotic spillover be recognised at an early stage? The new working group ‘Virus Metagenomics and Evolution’ at the BNITM uses modern genetic methods to analyse the virome in humans, animals and the environment. In doing so, it links molecular data with ecological factors - in an interdisciplinary, globally networked manner and in line with the One Health approach.

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Das Foto zeigt eine schwarz-weiße Schlange mit aufgerissenem Maul.

©Adobe Stock | mgkuijpers

Publication

Snake bite envenoming underestimated in Gabon

Snake bite envenoming is more common and widespread in Gabon than previously known. Researchers from BNITM and CERMEL have collected comprehensive epidemiological data for the first time and published their findings in the Journal of Global Health. According to their findings, snake bite envenoming is an enormous burden on the population, especially in areas that are difficult to access.

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The photo shows the MOBILISE truck from the front.

©BNITM | Dino Schachten

High-security lab to go

MOBILISE truck is ready for action

Highly dangerous viruses know no boundaries – and neither does the new mobile high-security laboratory ‘MOBILISE’. It enables diagnostics at security level 4: for humans, animals and the environment. The combination of One Health, sustainable construction and maximum biosafety makes it unique internationally. The MOBILISE truck was developed by BNITM and partners from research and industry – for international One Health missions in emergencies.

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©BNITM

Event

125 years of global infection research - in the heart of Hamburg

On 1 October 2025, the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) celebrates its 125th anniversary. In the course of its chequered history, the institute has made a significant contribution to the fight against diseases such as Malaria, Ebola and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). In numerous events, we look back – and forward.

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©ECTMIH2025

Specialist event

Science Congress

In October 2025, the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM) will celebrate its 125th anniversary. And how do researchers celebrate? With a scientific conference! After thirty years, the ‘European Congress on Tropical Medicine and International Health’ (ECTMIH) is returning to Hamburg. The organisers are expecting more than 1,000 participants at the Congress Center Hamburg (CCH). Take part and send in your session proposals!

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