Regional antigen bank launches in the Americas to bolster foot-and-mouth disease preparedness

BRAZIL – The Americas took a major step forward in animal health security on August 29, 2025, with the official launch of the Regional Foot-and-Mouth Disease Antigen Bank (BANVACO). 

The initiative, led by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) through its Pan American Center for Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Veterinary Public Health (PANAFTOSA), is designed to guarantee quick access to vaccines in the event of an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).

The bank was formalised during BANVACO’s first regular meeting, held from August 28–29. Although the Americas have made significant strides in eliminating FMD, experts stress the importance of maintaining vigilance, as a reintroduction could jeopardise national food security, international trade, and the livelihoods of rural communities.

A new model for rapid response

BANVACO does not exist as a physical storage facility. Instead, it is a coordinated network of supplier laboratories holding antigens that can be formulated into vaccines in an emergency. 

This innovative structure allows countries to respond quickly and efficiently while avoiding the costs of maintaining large vaccine stockpiles.

“BANVACO is a political and operational commitment from countries to strengthen regional preparedness, health and food security by guaranteeing access to the rapid deployment of vaccines in an emergency to preserve animal health and the well-being of communities,” said PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa.

FMD is one of the most contagious viral diseases affecting cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. Outbreaks can cripple economies, with potential annual losses in the billions of dollars. 

While systematic vaccination historically helped control outbreaks, most countries in the Americas have now suspended routine vaccinations after proving the absence of infection. 

In emergencies, however, targeted vaccination remains the most effective tool to protect animal health, prevent culling, and minimise economic shocks.

Progress toward eradication

The launch of BANVACO comes as the region celebrates landmark achievements. Earlier this year, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) certified Brazil and Bolivia as free of FMD without vaccination. 

Today, nearly 80% of cattle in the Americas are in countries with FMD-free status without vaccination, about 18% are in areas with freedom with vaccination, and only 2% remain outside official recognition.

Dr. Barbosa hailed this as “a significant milestone for the Hemispheric Foot-and-Mouth Disease Eradication Program (PHEFA), which seeks the eradication of the disease.”

BANVACO also aligns with long-standing recommendations from regional bodies such as the South American Commission for the Fight against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (COSALFA) and the Hemispheric Committee for the Eradication of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (COHEFA). Its ultimate goal is to safeguard FMD-free territories and protect decades of progress.

Armenia strengthens defenses

While the Americas focus on securing their disease-free status, other regions remain vulnerable. Armenia, for example, continues to face risks from FMD, which spreads rapidly through animal contact, contaminated feed, equipment, or even clothing.

To counter these threats, Armenia has partnered with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the European Commission for the Control of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (EuFMD), and WOAH under the Progressive Control Pathway for FMD (PCP-FMD). 

From August 18–20, Yerevan hosted a national workshop under the EuFMD “Move FAST – GET Prepared” strategy, which provided veterinary experts, government officials, and farmers with tools to refine vaccination strategies and assess economic impacts of control measures.

High-level meetings following the workshop reaffirmed Armenia’s commitment to evidence-based policies and regional collaboration. 

With stronger surveillance, harmonised vaccination, and international support, Armenia is advancing its national control plan while contributing to global efforts against one of the world’s most serious transboundary animal diseases.

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