The strength of the proposed approach is not circumstantial; it is grounded in a prolonged and rigorously documented epidemiological silence. Argentina has not recorded clinical cases of the disease since 2006, and the absence of viral circulation has been maintained since 2011. These years of favorable health evidence, combined with the evolution of sanitary status in neighboring countries, create a technically favorable scenario for reviewing current control strategies.
Epidemiological Basis and Regional Context
The strength of this proposal is not circumstantial; it is based on a prolonged and rigorously documented epidemiological silence. Argentina has not recorded clinical cases of the disease since 2006, and the absence of viral circulation has been sustained since 2011.
These years of favorable health evidence, combined with the evolution of sanitary status in neighboring countries, create a technically favorable scenario for reviewing current control strategies.
Currently, the country presents a dual structure: the Patagonian region already holds foot-and-mouth disease-free status without vaccination, while the rest of the territory continues under mandatory vaccination schemes.
Achieving a unified higher sanitary status represents a large-scale technical challenge that requires strong scientific consensus.
Technical Pillars for a Planned Transition
It is essential to emphasize that this proposal does not require an abrupt interruption of immunization programs. On the contrary, it promotes a gradual, methodical, and strictly evidence-based transition.
To ensure the biosecurity of the national herd, the technical framework establishes key conditions that must be strengthened before any modification to vaccination policies:
Active epidemiological surveillance: intensified monitoring systems to enable early detection of potential viral incursions.
Individual traceability: implementation of precise systems to track livestock movements comprehensively.
Response and contingency capacity: development of efficient emergency logistics, including a permanent strategic vaccine bank and the creation of a dedicated financial fund to address potential outbreaks.
The Role of Veterinarians in the New Paradigm
In a zero-vaccination scenario, the role of veterinarians becomes even more critical. The professional shifts from primarily executing immunization plans to becoming a central figure in territorial surveillance and biosecurity.
Veterinarians will play a decisive role in:
- Continuous training of producers
- Implementation of preventive measures at farm level
- Early detection of clinical signs compatible with vesicular diseases
The integration of technological tools and the strengthening of institutional frameworks are essential to ensure that this transition leads to greater international competitiveness and optimized use of national health resources.
This represents a paradigm shift that not only aims to expand access to demanding global markets, but also to ensure the long-term sustainability and sanitary security of Argentina’s livestock production.