26, 27, 28 October 2022 - Hybrid event / Marseille (France)

What cultural shifts, innovative solutions, and new technologies are changing the way in which we understand and control FAST diseases?

Foot-and-mouth And Similar Transboundary (FAST) animal diseases pose a substantial threat to disease-free countries, where single incursions can have devastating outcomes, while controlling them in endemic areas can generate positive effects for national economies, livelihoods of livestock keepers, and animal welfare. Surveillance and control programs are often expensive and logistically challenging: in this context, developing integrated programs targeting FAST diseases with similar characteristics might improve use of resources, capacities and accelerate the achievement of animal health targets.

As many other sectors, veterinary services are experiencing a process of digital transformation characterised by the integration of new approaches, policies, and technologies into every aspect of disease surveillance and control. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend: animal health professionals have to overcome many challenges, including travel restrictions and shortage of resources. This requires the use of new technologies and the application of creative strategies to reach stakeholders and achieve objectives in the most efficient way. How is digital transformation improving FAST capacity building, diagnostics, surveillance, and risk assessment? What cultural shifts, processes, and new technologies are changing the way in which we understand and control FAST diseases? What opportunities new technologies give for an improved FAST surveillance and control?

Research and innovation, digital tools and partnerships between public and private stakeholders in the veterinary domain can improve the control of FAST diseases and contribute to FAO's Strategic Framework in support of the 2030 Agenda through the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agri-food systems for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life.

The OS22 explored challenges and opportunities offered by digital transformation, innovation, and partnerships in the fight against FAST diseases.

OS22 Focus

• ​Learning and networking
• Risk monitoring and modelling
• Surveillance and control
• Vaccines and vaccination
• Emergency preparedness and response
• Virology and Diagnostics​

 Workshops

• FAST Risk Monitoring
• Vaccine availability and accessibility