Riems

Across the tranquil waters of the Bay of Greifswald lies Riems, a seemingly unassuming island with an extraordinary story. Riems is not just an island. It’s a secluded sanctuary where scientific breakthroughs have been battling invisible foes for over a century. Here, nestled on this small island connected to the mainland by a causeway, stands the Friedrich Loeffler Institute. The institute was established in 1910 by its namesake, Friedrich Loeffler. Loeffler’s groundbreaking work in 1898 identified the cause of foot-and-mouth disease not as a bacterium, but as a virus, a “smallest of all organisms.” This discovery marked the birth of virology. Ironically, Loeffler’s early research inadvertently infected the Greifswald region with foot-and-mouth disease. This prompted the move to the isolated Riems in 1910. Today, the Friedrich Loeffler Institute on Riems remains at the forefront of animal disease research. Scientists here grapple with challenges like bovine spongiform encephalopathy (mad cow disease), swine fever, and avian flu. They develop vaccines and preventative measures, continuing Loeffler’s legacy. Riems itself is a fascinating blend of nature and science. The island, measuring about 1,250 meters by 300 meters, is a vital resting place for migrating waterbirds. The Fahrenbrink Peninsula Nature Reserve underscores its ecological importance. Yet, access is restricted due to the high-security research conducted within the institute’s walls. The laboratories operate at biosafety level 4. This requires strict protocols, including clothing changes and showers for all who enter and leave. From a small pasture leased by Greifswald to a world-renowned research hub, Riems has witnessed a remarkable transformation. The island’s history is deeply intertwined with the fight against animal diseases. It stands as a testament to the power of scientific discovery and the importance of vigilance in protecting both animal and human health.