The MOU was signed by Dr. Hiroshi Kida, Director of Hokkaido University; Dr. Yashuhiko Zusuki, Professor of the Department of Global Epidemiology, Hokkaido University; Dr. Libertado C. Cruz, Executive Director of PCC and Dr. Felomino G. Mamuad, Deputy Executive Director last December 5, 2009.
The MOU, which shall take effect for a period of three years, shall develop and implement activities in the areas of exchange of researchers and students, plan and implement collaborative research projects, provide lectures and symposia, exchange in technology-related information and relevant materials and promote other academic cooperation as maybe further and mutually agreed.
Dr. Cruz said that this MOU is another milestone in scientific research collaboration especially with a developed and world-class institution such as the Hokkaido University.
The Research Center for Zoonosis Control in Hokkaido University was established to address concerns on recent emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases worldwide such as SARS, Nipah, Hanta, Hendra, influenza, Ebola virus infections, pneumonic plague and leptospirosis.
It focuses on conducting global surveillance in identifying natural host animals and elucidates the routes by which the pathogens transmit from one animal to another, including humans.
Dr. Cruz said that this cooperation is important in improving human and public health concerns.
