Riyadh: The National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases (Weqaa Center) continues to carry out active epidemiological surveys of animal diseases across the Kingdom, targeting cattle, camels, and horses in various regions.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the survey serves as one of Weqaa Center's primary tools for monitoring livestock health and assessing the spread of animal diseases, including zoonotic diseases. It supports the formulation of preventive policies and enhances preparedness to combat potential animal epidemics.
The initiative aims to evaluate progress in disease prevention and control, determine the prevalence of epidemic-prone animal diseases, and provide accurate, up-to-date data to health authorities concerned with human health, particularly regarding zoonotic diseases, which represent a major shared challenge at both national and international levels. This integrated approach to animal, human, and environmental health reflects Weqaa Center's commitment to the One Health approach, which underscores the importance of cross-sector collaboration for effective and comprehensive disease response.
The survey encompasses a wide range of diseases, including six zoonotic diseases, seven affecting cattle, nine affecting sheep, five affecting horses, and five affecting camels, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to addressing the Kingdom's most pressing animal health challenges.
Under a detailed implementation plan, more than 90,000 animal samples were collected and examined across the Kingdom, ensuring broad geographic coverage and diverse representation based on livestock density and epidemiological risk.
The survey's success relies on extensive field collaboration, with more than 500 veterinary practitioners from various specialties participating. They received specialized training in investigation techniques, sample collection, and management of suspected cases, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the reliability of laboratory and statistical results.
The findings of this survey will play a key role in supporting data-driven decision-making, guiding future vaccination and disease control strategies, and establishing internationally recognized national health records.
This comprehensive program underscores the Kingdom's commitment to strengthening animal disease prevention, improving veterinary services, and safeguarding livestock as a vital component of food security and environmental sustainability. It also highlights the pivotal role of Weqaa Center in advancing both human and animal health in line with the highest scientific and professional standards.