December 30, 2024

FAO conducts workshop to strengthen Iraq's veterinary disease surveillance

The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) in Iraq has conducted a five-day Training of Trainers (ToTs) workshop on veterinary epidemiology and disease surveillance.

Held in Erbil, this initiative is part of the project "Strengthening Iraq Veterinary Legislation and Expanding Delivery of Animal Health Services and Disease Surveillance." The project aims to address critical gaps in Iraq's veterinary surveillance and reporting systems, particularly at the central level and in underserved governorates.

Veterinary epidemiology plays a vital role in studying disease patterns in animal populations, which is essential for controlling outbreaks and safeguarding public health. Effective surveillance depends on systematic data collection and analysis, enabling prompt responses to emerging threats. By enhancing the epidemiological skills of veterinary staff, the workshop aimed to improve disease surveillance and early warning systems, contributing to socio-economic stability and public health.

Dr Salah ElHajj Hassan, FAO Representative in Iraq, highlighted the urgent need to strengthen veterinary systems to address emerging disease risks. He stated, "Improving surveillance and early warning capabilities is key to protecting livestock health and food security. By equipping veterinary staff with critical skills, Iraq can better prevent and manage disease outbreaks, safeguarding livelihoods and ensuring food security. This workshop reflects FAO's commitment to building sustainable, science-based veterinary capacities across Iraq within a One Health approach."

The workshop provided comprehensive training on disease surveillance and early warning capabilities. Participants received instruction on systematic data collection, analysis, and reporting to ensure the rapid detection and management of livestock diseases. This training contributes to stronger disease prevention efforts in Iraq.

Key topics covered during the workshop included basic concepts of epidemiology, the design and implementation of animal disease surveillance plans, surveillance methods, sampling procedures, disease reporting systems, and techniques for investigating disease outbreaks.

A total of 24 participants attended the workshop. They represented a diverse group of stakeholders in animal health and disease surveillance, including field veterinarians and laboratory staff from targeted governorates, staff from the Baghdad Epidemiology Department, personnel from the GDVAW/Erbil Animal Health Department, and representatives from slaughterhouse departments in Baghdad and Erbil.

The initiative aimed to equip veterinary staff with essential skills in disease surveillance and reporting, thereby preventing livestock disease outbreaks, protecting livelihoods, and enhancing food security in Iraq. Through systematic training and the dissemination of expertise, the programme contributes to the development of resilient and effective veterinary systems across the region.

-      Reliefweb