Ethiopia is a country with one of the largest and most diverse livestock populations in Africa. Livestock contributes to about 40% of the agricultural gross domestic product (GDP) and 16% of the total GDP of Ethiopia. However, the livestock sector is constrained by various factors, such as poor animal health, low productivity, inadequate infrastructure, and limited market access. Among the animal health challenges, FMD is one of the most important and widespread diseases in Ethiopia. FMD causes significant economic losses due to reduced milk and meat production, decreased draught power, increased mortality, trade barriers, and control costs.
In our review article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular epidemiology, economic impact, diagnosis, and control measures of FMD in Ethiopia and compare them with the global situation. We summarize the results of previous studies on FMD in Ethiopia, which have revealed that four serotypes (O, A, SAT 1, and SAT 2) are circulating in the country, with serotype O being the most prevalent and widespread. We also discuss the genetic diversity and evolution of FMD viruses in Ethiopia and their implications for vaccine development and selection. We review the current diagnostic methods and their limitations, and we highlight the need for more rapid and sensitive tests that can be used in the field. We evaluate the current control strategies and their challenges, and we propose some recommendations for improving FMD prevention and control in Ethiopia.
We hope that our review article will provide useful information and insights for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in FMD research and control in Ethiopia and beyond. We also hope that it will stimulate more studies and collaborations on FMD in Ethiopia, especially on the molecular epidemiology, economic impact, and vaccine evaluation of the disease. We believe that a better understanding and management of FMD in Ethiopia will contribute to the improvement of animal health and welfare, the enhancement of livestock productivity and trade, and the achievement of food security and poverty reduction in the country.