The Vietnam Animal Health Information System (VAHIS) was recently launched by USAID, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Interim FAO representative in Vietnam Kamal Malhotra speaks at the event (source: MARD)

The system received financial support from the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and technical support from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), aiming to simplify procedures and apply information technology to animal disease reporting to meet the World Organisation for Animal Health’s OIE) standards.

This computerized animal disease reporting system was designed to rapidly and accurately disseminate information on disease threats, from the front lines of surveillance to those responsible for analysis and response.

It will also monitor and offer early warnings on animal epidemics based on monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual reports.

At the provincial level, the system will help authorities prevent the spread of epidemics; mitigate damage in animal husbandry and human health, especially in animal-to-human diseases; and secure the export quality of Vietnamese animal products.

VAHIS is expected to enable rapid response to disease outbreaks, minimize public health threats and economic loss, and build public trust in livestock products for both domestic and global consumers./.

( VNF )