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WOAH launches a pilot to simplify the official animal health status procedure
In response to concerns raised by Members about the administrative burden associated with the annual reconfirmation procedure, WOAH and its Scientific Commission for Animal Diseases (the Commission) launched a streamlining initiative. The objective is to simplify the procedure while ensuring continued alignment with the Terrestrial Animal Health Code. The pilot phase is ready to be launched.
Revised reconfirmation form for foot and mouth disease (without vaccination)
At the Commission’s request, WOAH developed a revised annual reconfirmation form for foot and mouth disease (FMD) last year. The updated form features closed-ended, concise questions and tailored guidance indicating when additional information is required.
This form was first shared with Members as an annex to the Commission’s September 2025 meeting report. Following feedback received from Members, the Commission endorsed further refinements at its February 2026 meeting and recommended piloting the form for Members having an FMD-free status where vaccination is not practised.
Pilot phase to gather Members’ feedback
Members having expressed interest in streamlining annual reconfirmations and provided input to date –ensuring balanced representation across WOAH Regions – will be invited to participate in this pilot test.
The pilot will gather feedback from end users, identify technical or operational challenges and propose more effective approaches for submitting supporting documentation, in line with the requirements of the Terrestrial Animal Health Code. Its outcomes will inform the timeline for full implementation and ensure the final process reflects Members’ practical needs and operating realities.
Engage with us during the 93rd General Session
To support continued dialogue, the WOAH Status Department will host a dedicated kiosk on Official Status Recognition during the 93rd General Session this May. All WOAH Members are warmly encouraged to visit the kiosk and engage with the team.
Open call for Members to express interest
The WOAH Status Department invites Members to take part in this initiative. Expressions of interest should be sent to the WOAH Status Department [email protected] by 29 May 2026.
Contact: WOAH Status Department ([email protected])
WOAH has recently updated the foot and mouth disease (FMD) status web page to enhance clarity and provide greater visibility to Members whose entire territory is officially recognised as free from FMD.
The WOAH FMD status web page has been updated to give a clearer overview of Members having officially recognised FMD-free status by WOAH. The revised section showcases the achievements of Members whose entire territory is officially recognised by WOAH as free from FMD, whether the status was achieved through zonal recognition, nationwide efforts or independent of vaccination strategy.
New Dedicated Section
A new section titled ‘FMD-Free Members’ has been added to help users easily find Members whose entire territory is free from FMD. It brings together all such Members in one place. Other sections include ‘FMD-Free Zones’, with Members having zones free of FMD but not covering the entire country, and ‘List of Members with an Endorsed Official Control Programme for FMD’.
This update helps ensure proper visibility and recognition for Members’ efforts in controlling, preventing and eradicating FMD, using key control measures such as vaccination or zoning. It also aims to provide clearer visibility of national-level disease freedom and support transparent international trade in animals and animal products, while reflecting WOAH’s commitment to its Members and recognising their accomplishments in improving animal health.
Furthermore, the improved page layout helps clearly communicate FMD-free status of Members. These updates are now available in all three official WOAH languages, ensuring accessibility and transparency for the global community.
The section on suspensions and status reinstatements remains unchanged at the bottom of the web page and is continuously updated with the latest information.
Contact: WOAH Status Department ([email protected])