Аннотация: Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals, leading to severe economic losses in livestock-dependent economies. Iraq has faced recurring FMD outbreaks for decades, with significant consequences on livestock health, trade, and food security. This paper explores the epidemiology, transmission dynamics, economic impact, and control measures of FMD in Iraq. It also examines the challenges faced by veterinary authorities and offers recommendations for improved surveillance, vaccination programs, and policy implementation to mitigate future outbreaks.
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, and buffalo. The disease, caused by the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV), leads to severe economic losses due to reduced productivity, trade restrictions, and high morbidity rates among livestock. Iraq has been struggling with recurring FMD outbreaks since its first recorded case in 1937. The epidemiology of FMD in Iraq has been shaped by several factors, including illegal livestock importation, insufficient vaccination programs, and limited surveillance infrastructure.
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of FMD outbreaks in Iraq, focusing on epidemiological trends from 2011 to 2023. The research highlights a significant increase in outbreaks, particularly in 2016, when an illegal importation of infected cattle triggered a widespread epidemic. Additionally, the emergence of the SAT-2 serotype in 2023, previously unreported in Iraq, raises concerns about new challenges in disease control and vaccine effectiveness.
The study identifies key risk factors contributing to the persistence of FMD in Iraq, including weak biosecurity measures, inadequate disease monitoring, and gaps in vaccine coverage. To mitigate future outbreaks, a multi-faceted approach is recommended, including stricter border controls, enhanced vaccination strategies, improved diagnostic capabilities, and increased awareness among livestock farmers. Strengthening Iraq’s veterinary services and collaborating with international organizations will be crucial in controlling and preventing the spread of FMD.
This research underscores the urgent need for proactive disease management strategies to protect Iraq’s livestock industry and ensure long-term food security. By addressing these challenges, Iraq can reduce the economic impact of FMD and safeguard its agricultural sector from future epidemics.