Tripoli: Dr. Hatem Al-Maslati, Director of the Monitoring, Investigation, and Rapid Response Department at the National Center for Animal Health, confirmed that the foot-and-mouth disease situation in Libya remains under control and has not reached epidemic levels. He noted that monitoring, investigation, response, and containment measures are continuing to be implemented in various regions.
According to Libyan News Agency, Al-Maslati explained in an audio statement published by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock that the center has recently recorded an increase in reports of the disease in several areas. He urged livestock breeders and traders to strictly adhere to biosecurity measures to limit the spread of infection.
He indicated that the first cases were recorded on May 5, 2026, in the Tajoura area. The affected area was dealt with, and the necessary samples were taken. Laboratory tests confirmed the infection, and the outbreak was brought under control in cooperation with the Tripoli Animal Health Office.
Reports have increased recently in several areas, including Tajoura, Ain Zara, Misrata, Masallata, and Zawiya. The center has begun collecting samples from affected areas, and laboratory results have confirmed positive cases. Spraying and disinfection operations have also been carried out in the affected livestock pens.
The center, in cooperation with the Agricultural Police, law enforcement agencies, municipalities, and agricultural coordinators, has taken a number of precautionary measures. These include prohibiting the movement of animals and closing livestock markets to limit the spread of the disease. The center is also continuing to monitor affected areas and farms and is receiving reports from various regions.
A crisis management committee has been formed, chaired by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, to continuously monitor the evolving epidemiological situation. Al-Maslati confirmed that the center has notified the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) of the recorded outbreaks and is coordinating with them to obtain technical support.
The National Center for Animal Health is exerting its utmost efforts within its available resources but still requires urgent financial and logistical support. The Minister of Agriculture and Livestock has taken the necessary measures in accordance with the ministry's plans, and there is hope that the Prime Minister's office and relevant authorities will provide the required support to enhance the center's capacity to combat the disease.
Al-Maslati called on livestock breeders and traders to fully comply with biosecurity measures, particularly restricting animal movement and adhering to disinfection and sterilization procedures. He emphasized that these measures are essential in limiting the spread of infection.
He explained that foot-and-mouth disease is endemic in Libya and that vaccination campaigns have been conducted in recent years. However, the entry of smuggled, unvaccinated animals poses a significant challenge, threatening vaccination and prevention programs and increasing the likelihood of livestock losses.
Al-Maslati reiterated that the epidemiological situation remains under control, while emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and heightened response. The National Center for Animal Health, in cooperation with veterinarians and technicians in various regions, will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to protect the country's livestock.