FAO's role in animal health
The link between human and animal populations, and the surrounding environment, is particularly close in developing regions where animals provide transportation, draught power, fuel, clothing, high-quality proteins (meat, eggs and milk) and source of income. Therefore, animal health is a core element for sustainable development and livestock production.
As changes in livestock production increase the potential for new pathogens to emerge, grow and spread from animals to humans, healthy animals are closely related to healthy people and a healthy environment. Through the One Health approach, FAO contributes to improving animal health to make livestock production more productive and sustainable while achieving optimal health for all at the human-animal-environment interface.
Areas of work
Stories
Events
5/5
2026
Foot-and-mouth disease vaccine security: challenges and strategic approaches
05/05/2026
FMD continues to pose a major global threat to food security, livelihoods, and trade. Ensuring access to effective and well-matched vaccines remains a critical pillar of disease prevention and control, particularly in light of recent incursions of exotic serotypes such as SAT1 and SAT2 into new regions...
21/4
2026
Artificial intelligence and biosecurity: bridging science and practice for predictive animal health
21/04/2026
The upcoming webinar will bring together cutting‑edge innovation and practical field experience to explore how animal biosecurity can be strengthened from farm to policy level. Participants will learn how artificial intelligence and digital tools...
Publications
Videos
Global One Health Intelligence in action - Official launch of the GLEWS+ platform and website
28/04/2026
GLEWS+ is a flagship One Health intelligence mechanism jointly established by FAO, WHO and WOAH to strengthen collaboration across sectors and improve...
Current global situation and emerging risks for foot-and-mouth disease
27/04/2026
FMD remains one of the most contagious and economically significant transboundary animal diseases, with major implications for food security, livelihoods,...
Improving Collaboration between Veterinarians and Veterinary Paraprofessionals. Experiences from Uganda, Nigeria, and South Africa
21/04/2026
FAO in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association (WVA) and the African Veterinary Technicians Association (AVTA), presents this webinar on...