Animal diseases continue to pose a significant threat to livestock production, international trade and global food security, according to the State of the World’s Animal Health 2026 report published by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

The report highlights that outbreaks of transboundary animal diseases remain a major challenge for livestock sectors worldwide, disrupting production systems, limiting market access and increasing the financial burden on producers and governments. As climate change, global trade and changing ecosystems continue to influence disease distribution, the need for stronger prevention and surveillance has become increasingly important.

WOAH notes that effective animal health systems are essential not only for protecting livestock but also for supporting resilient food production and stable agricultural economies. Early detection, transparent disease reporting and coordinated international responses are identified as key factors in reducing the economic impact of disease outbreaks.

The report also draws attention to the growing importance of biosecurity and vaccination programmes in safeguarding livestock industries. Investments in veterinary services and disease monitoring are presented as critical tools for reducing production losses and maintaining confidence in international trade.

According to WOAH, animal diseases can have consequences that extend well beyond the farm gate. In addition to reducing productivity and increasing production costs, outbreaks may trigger trade restrictions, disrupt supply chains and place additional pressure on national food systems.

The report calls for continued collaboration between governments, veterinary authorities, producers and industry stakeholders to strengthen preparedness against both endemic and emerging diseases. Building resilient animal health systems, it concludes, is fundamental to protecting livestock production while supporting long-term economic sustainability.

For livestock producers operating in an increasingly interconnected global market, the findings reinforce that investment in prevention, surveillance and veterinary infrastructure is not only an animal health priority but also a strategic business decision.

For further info: WOAH official website.