European Commission Supports Georgia with FMD SAT-2 Vaccine to Protect Livestock and Strengthen Animal Health Situation in the Region

On 30 May 2023, the European Commission dispatched 345,000 doses of the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) SAT-2 vaccine to support vaccination efforts targeting cattle and small ruminants in Georgia. The primary objective of this initiative is to prevent the spread of the SAT-2 strain of FMD into the country and protect the animal health situation in the European region.

The livestock sector is vital for Georgia's economy and food security and safeguarding the health of animals is essential for maintaining a stable agricultural industry. The timely donation of the FMD SAT-2 vaccine will not only benefit Georgian livestock but also contribute to the protection of the animal health situation in the entire European region.

This donation fits perfectly into Georgia's vaccination plan, as it will bridge the gap between the current urgent needs related to the epidemiological risks of FMD in the region and the time when Georgian authorities will receive their regular FMD vaccine stocks.

The air shipment arrived safely in Tbilisi on Tuesday 30 May 2023 and is being distributed respecting the cold chain. The European Commission will closely monitor the progress of the vaccination campaign in Georgia, working with local authorities and stakeholders to ensure a successful outcome. The Commission will also continue to evaluate the overall situation and consider further measures if needed

Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. The SAT-2 strain of the virus has been identified as a potential threat to livestock in the whole European region.