Isabel Lechner, Patrik Buholzer and Manon Schuppers joined a 2-dayworkshop in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in May. The workshop was organized by the National Livestock and Fisheries Development Program (NLFDP) in the framework of our collaboration to reduce the impact of abortion-causing diseases in small ruminants. The workshop concept and methodology were developed by our team, who also facilitated and guided the discussions throughout the event.
The workshop brought together around 40 experts from the authorities and the small ruminant sector. Using the inputs provided through several presentations, the participants first discussed farm-level risk factors for introduction and spread of abortion-causing pathogens and reflected on the impact of these pathogens on animal health, human health and farm economics. On the second day of the workshop, the main focus was placed on farm-level risk management measures. The participants underlined the importance of farmers’ awareness and knowledge as a basis fori ncreasing their interest and willingness to implement measures.
This workshop was an important first outreach activity to bring abortion-causing diseases in small ruminants to the sector’s agenda. Discussions during the workshop demonstrated that the impact of these diseases is likely to be significant, which is not only a problem for human and animal health, but also affects the sector’s productivity and profitability.
After the workshop, we have held several meetings with our counterparts at NLFDP to discuss future activities, including a comprehensive national disease survey and risk factor analysis. These activities will ultimately pave the way for the development of a national disease control strategy.
Every six weeks, the newsletter provides a summary of relevant articles as well as our viewpoint on the news.
The newsletter is free and without obligation. You can unsubscribe from the distribution list at any time.
