Progress of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Eradication in the Americas Since 1951

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) remains one of the most devastating livestock diseases globally, due to its high infectivity and adaptability. It causes clinical damage in various animal species, significantly impacting animal welfare and the economy of the peoples of the Americas. This is primarily due to trade restrictions imposed by veterinary authorities in importing countries, which hinder market access and lead to serious socio-economic and food security consequences.

In South America, following its introduction in the 19th century, FMD became endemic throughout much of the region. Its introduction into Canada (1949) and Mexico (1950) raised regional concern, which led to the establishment of the Pan American Foot-and-Mouth Disease Center (PANAFTOSA/SPV-PAHO/WHO) in 1951, through an agreement between the Pan American Sanitary Bureau, the Organization of American States (OAS), and the Government of Brazil. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) was designated as the responsible entity.

Since its creation, the Center has provided technical cooperation to countries, generating knowledge and tools to support disease control efforts—particularly in the development of vaccines and diagnostic methods, the establishment of the South American diagnostic laboratory network, and the epidemiological characterization of disease ecosystems linked to cattle production systems. This has been carried out alongside an extensive training and human resource development program, mainly targeting national veterinary services.