Wageningen Bioveterinary Research reports ongoing FMD risks 25 years on

EUROPE – Wageningen Bioveterinary Research (WBVR) is marking 25 years of research on foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), reflecting on lessons learned since the virus re-emerged in the Netherlands on 21 March 2001, after 17 years of absence. 

The outbreak triggered one of the most significant animal health crises in Europe, affecting livestock nationwide and exposing vulnerabilities in European production systems. 

The crisis reshaped biosecurity, surveillance, and emergency response strategies, establishing a new benchmark for FMD preparedness.

Although the 2001 outbreak is now history, FMD remains a persistent threat. 

This week, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) reported a new case on the Greek island of Lesbos, following three independent outbreaks across Europe in 2025. 

These incidents highlight that the virus continues to circulate and can disrupt livestock sectors even decades after it last appeared.

WBVR research over the past 25 years has provided critical insights into FMD transmission and control. 

Studies show that most infections occur within a limited radius, but indirect routes, including contaminated environments, transport vehicles, and equipment, significantly contribute to virus spread. 

Early detection, stringent biosecurity measures, and rapid diagnostic testing remain essential to contain outbreaks. 

“Continuous research is essential to stay ahead of this virus and to ensure we are prepared for what may come,” said Aldo Dekker of WBVR.

Emergency vaccination has proven highly effective in controlling outbreaks by reducing virus transmission and lowering the reproduction number below one, preventing extensive livestock losses and economic damage. 

As the Netherlands’ National Reference Laboratory for animal diseases, WBVR supports rapid diagnostics, surveillance, and science-based decision-making during FMD crises.

FMD in other regions

Europe’s experience offers lessons for emerging livestock markets in the Middle East and Africa (MEA), where FMD is endemic in several countries. 

Kenya reported 47 outbreaks between 2023 and 2025, while Ethiopia recorded more than 60 confirmed cases in the same period. 

In West Africa, Nigeria continues to experience annual outbreaks that affect more than 1.2 million cattle and small ruminants, resulting in an estimated US$150 million in livestock losses each year.

Investments in local vaccine production are increasingly viewed as essential. 

South Africa restarted multi-strain FMD vaccine manufacturing in early 2026, providing domestic and regional supply for southern Africa. 

Similarly, Egypt and Morocco have strengthened local production capacity for veterinary vaccines to reduce reliance on imports and enhance regional response times. 

Public-private collaborations across MEA countries are also improving diagnostics, biosecurity, and veterinary training, mirroring lessons learned in Europe.

The 2001 Netherlands outbreak, combined with ongoing WBVR research, underscores a crucial point for livestock sectors worldwide.

Vigilance must remain high, and science-led monitoring, preparedness, and local manufacturing are the most effective tools to safeguard animal health and protect economic stability.

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