Evaluation of applied foot and mouth disease-providing measures in the Republic of Armenia: A retrospective study.

BACKGROUND

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects livestock and causes significant economic losses. Control of FMD relies on culling infected animals and implementing comprehensive vaccination programs. Armenia's livestock sector, with extensive use of remote pastures and proximity to countries where FMD is endemic, faces particular challenges in managing the disease.

AIM: This study aims to review the epidemiological trends of FMD in Armenia over the past 60 years, evaluate the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns, and assess strategies for maintaining a stable epidemiological situation.

METHODS

Historical data on FMD outbreaks, vaccination coverage in cattle, small ruminants, and pigs, and vaccine effectiveness were analyzed. Special attention was given to the identification of circulating virus subtypes and the implementation of preventive vaccination strategies adapted to Armenia's geographic and epidemiological conditions.

RESULTS

Armenia has implemented a nationwide preventive vaccination program for cattle, small ruminants, and pigs, which has proven practical and economically viable. Regular monitoring of virus subtypes in high-risk areas and updating vaccine antigens to match emerging strains have ensured strong immunological protection. The main route of FMD introduction has been through shared summer pastures with neighboring countries. Timely preventive actions and systematic vaccination campaigns have contributed to a stable epidemiological situation and a reduced risk of outbreaks.

CONCLUSION

Sustained preventive strategies, regional surveillance, and updated vaccines have been key to controlling FMD in Armenia. The combination of timely preventive measures, systematic vaccination, and antigen-matched vaccines has effectively reduced outbreak risk and supported long-term disease containment in the country.