FAO Nepal Training Notifiable Animal Diseases in Madhesh Province

4th September 2025, Kathmandu

In a significant step toward bolstering Nepal’s pandemic preparedness, FAO Nepal, under the Pandemic Fund’s “Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness for Early Detection (#SPEED)” project, recently conducted a two-day training session in Janakpur.

FAO Nepal Training Notifiable Animal Diseases

The training, held during the last week of August, was aimed at enhancing the capacity of frontline animal health workers to recognize and report notifiable animal diseases.

A total of 35 animal health technicians from various local levels and districts of Madhesh province participated in the program. The initiative was a collaborative effort with the Department of Livestock Services and the Ministry of Livestock and Agriculture Cooperative (MoLMAC), Madhesh Province.

Early Detection is Key to Prevention

The primary objective of the training was to equip participants with the skills for the early detection of 26 notifiable animal diseases and the proper submission of samples for diagnosis. The ability to quickly identify and report these diseases is critical for preventing outbreaks and safeguarding both animal and human health. This approach aligns with the global “One Health” initiative, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

These diseases, including highly contagious ones like Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Peste des petits ruminants (PPR), can have devastating economic impacts on farmers and the national livestock sector. By improving surveillance at the local level, the project aims to mitigate these risks and ensure a more resilient food system.

A Focus on Practical Skills

The two-day session covered a range of essential topics, including:

In-depth knowledge of the 26 notifiable diseases recognized by the Government of Nepal.

Hands-on techniques for sample collection.

Protocols for secure sample submission to laboratories.

The importance of timely and accurate reporting to national and provincial authorities.

This training is part of the broader SPEED project’s efforts to enhance Nepal’s capacity for pandemic prevention and preparedness. By investing in the skills of frontline workers, FAO Nepal is building a stronger, more responsive animal health system capable of addressing both endemic and emerging disease threats.

The participants expressed gratitude for the training, stating that the practical knowledge and tools provided will be invaluable in their daily work. This initiative marks a crucial step in ensuring that Nepal is better equipped to detect and respond to potential disease outbreaks, thereby protecting public health and livelihoods across the country.

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