UN FAO Issues Urgent Call to Action as Foot-and-Mouth Disease Spreads in Europe and Middle East

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has issued an urgent warning about the resurgence of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) affecting Europe and parts of the Middle East, calling for increased awareness and immediate action to mitigate its spread. The organization conveyed this critical message through an official statement to “NewsroomWorldwide” on May 5, 2025.

According to the FAO, the recent outbreaks pose significant threats not only to animal health but also to the economic stability of the affected regions. Foot-and-mouth disease is highly contagious and can devastate livestock industries, leading to substantial economic losses. The FAO’s alert emphasizes the need for stringent measures to control the spread of the disease and prevent further outbreaks.

The FAO has appealed to international communities and local governments to collaborate and reinforce veterinary and border control measures. Enhanced surveillance, vaccination programs, and public awareness campaigns are among the recommended strategies to address the current crisis. The organization stresses the importance of rapid and coordinated responses to contain the disease effectively and safeguard both the agricultural sector and regional economies.