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🛒 تسوق الآنFoot-and-Mouth Disease in Libya: Animal Health Center Says Situation Under Control, Not Yet Epidemic
Foot-and-Mouth Disease in Libya: Animal Health Center Says Situation Under Control, Not Yet Epidemic
Official Confirmation: FMD Outbreaks Remain Contained Despite Rising Cases
The National Center for Animal Health in Libya has moved to reassure the public amid growing concerns over foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks across several regions. Dr. Hatem Al-Mesallati, Director of Monitoring, Investigation and Rapid Response, confirmed that the epidemiological situation remains under control and has not reached epidemic levels, in a statement issued July 16, 2026.
"The situation is being monitored continuously, and all necessary measures are in place," Dr. Al-Mesallati told the Libyan News Agency (LANA). The clarification came after social media speculation amplified fears that the viral disease had spiraled beyond government control.
Confirmed Outbreaks and Reported Losses
Despite official reassurances, FMD has been detected in multiple locations. On July 14, the Agricultural Police reported a significant cluster in the Al-Amamra area of Msallata, where the disease led to the death of 26 livestock animals — 20 sheep, 1 goat, and 1 cow — with additional cases under treatment.
Brigadier General Fawzi Abughaliyah, spokesman for the Agricultural Police, confirmed that containment protocols were activated immediately. Authorities isolated the affected zone, halted animal movement, and began spraying and disinfection operations alongside veterinary treatment for infected livestock.
Government Response and Containment Efforts
The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Wealth convened an emergency meeting on July 15, where Dr. Al-Mesallati briefed officials on the latest developments. The ministry outlined a multi-pronged response including rapid veterinary intervention in outbreak zones, a ban on livestock transport from affected areas, public awareness campaigns for farmers, and coordination with the National Center for Animal Health for vaccine distribution.
Libya's livestock sector has faced recurring challenges with FMD due to limited veterinary infrastructure and sporadic vaccine availability. The current outbreak underscores the vulnerability of this critical source of protein for Libyan households.
What Is Foot-and-Mouth Disease?
Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral illness affecting cloven-hoofed animals including cattle, sheep, and goats. It causes fever, blisters in the mouth and on the feet, lameness, and reduced milk production. While adult animals often recover, the disease can be fatal in young livestock, with mortality rates in newborns reaching over 50 percent in some outbreaks.
FMD is not considered a direct public health threat to humans, but its economic impact is severe. Outbreaks disrupt trade, reduce livestock productivity, and strain the food supply chain — particularly in Libya where fresh meat and dairy are dietary staples.
Economic Implications for Libyan Farmers
The livestock sector is a pillar of Libya's agricultural economy. With beef and dairy prices already under pressure from inflation and supply chain disruptions, additional livestock losses threaten to deepen food insecurity. Local farmers in affected areas have reported declining milk output and reduced herd sizes, raising concerns about medium-term protein supply.
The Animal Health Center has urged farmers to report suspected cases immediately and to follow biosecurity protocols, including isolating new animals before introducing them to existing herds. Vaccination campaigns will be prioritized in high-risk zones.
Challenges and Outlook
Libya's fragmented administrative landscape poses unique challenges for disease control. Coordination between municipalities, the Ministry of Agriculture, and animal health authorities remains inconsistent, and vaccine supply chains have been hampered by years of institutional instability. Nonetheless, Dr. Al-Mesallati expressed confidence in the current response framework, stating that containment zones and rapid response teams are functioning effectively.
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has been notified of the outbreaks, and Libyan authorities are coordinating with international partners to secure additional veterinary supplies if needed.
What Farmers Need to Know
Livestock owners across Libya are advised to: monitor animals daily for symptoms such as drooling, lameness, or blisters; immediately isolate and report any suspected cases to local agricultural police or veterinary services; restrict movement of animals between farms; and ensure vaccination records are up to date.
The National Center for Animal Health has activated a hotline for reporting and guidance. Early reporting remains the key to controlling the disease and minimizing further losses.
— Libya Press / Health Desk
