Empowering veterinary professionals globally to combat transboundary ruminant diseases: sheep and goat pox and lumpy skin disease

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has launched two new accredited open-access online courses to help veterinarians better prevent and control two rapidly spreading livestock diseases —sheep and goat pox (SGP) and lumpy skin disease (LSD) – that affect small ruminants and cattle, respectively.

Both diseases are increasingly threatening livestock production across regions in recent years. causing severe economic losses due to reduced milk and meat production, animal deaths and trade restrictions, as well as the high costs of control and eradication measures, ultimately impacting food security and the livelihoods of rural communities. As an example, only in 2025, lumpy skin disease, a disease transmitted by biting insects, was reported for first time ever in Italy, France and Spain. Also, sheep pox has also been introduced for first time in recent times in the Balkans and Spain.

The new courses are part of the Virtual Learning Centre (VLC), FAO’s platform for online training. Tutored courses on these topics were already available. The new open-access versions will allow participants to register at any time as emergencies and needs arise. They can then study and take final assessments at their own pace. Upon completion, successful participants receive an official certificate officially accredited by Veterinary Continuing Education in Europe (VetCEE) to allow them to earn credits towards their continuous professional development (CPD).

Each course features a series of engaging and highly visual modules covering key topics such as epidemiology, diagnostics, outbreak investigation, surveillance, and control strategies — with a strong emphasis on vaccination protocols and practical field implementation. There is also a case-study that allows a more applied approach to learn about disease control in the field.

“These courses are being launched at a pivotal moment, as the spread of lumpy skin disease and sheep and goat pox continues to intensify” said Daniel Beltrán-Alcrudo, FAO Technical Adviser on Animal Health. “By improving the knowledge and preparedness of the first responders, i.e. veterinarians in affected or at-risk countries, FAO is helping countries respond faster and more effectively when these diseases appear. The new open-access courses make this expertise freely available to veterinary professionals around the world.”

They represent a valuable enhancement to FAO’s portfolio of training resources to support national and regional efforts to manage and prevent animal disease spread and their burden. These courses are now available for self-registration:

• Sheep and Goat Pox (SGP) Preparedness course (self-paced)
• Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) Preparedness course (self-paced):