The EuFMD has programmed to support progressive control of FMD through establishing and coordinating PCP support officers (PSOs), following the request from the GF-TADs FMD working group. PSOs are expected to liaise with OIE delegates, points-of-contacts for PCP, Epidemiology and Laboratory to support and guide the veterinary authority to complete the PCP Stage and/or to progress FMD control along the PCP. They are equally expected to assist with follow up on recommendations made by the Regional Advisory Group (RAG) at regional roadmap meetings. Their support is usually tailored to the individual needs of the countries keeping regional or sub-regional FAO and OIE officers informed about activities. 

Objective of the workshop:

The workshop aims to develop relevant skills and impact knowledge on the approach taken by PSOs, making use of existing EuFMD training materials. These include general PCP guidance and more specific materials aimed at particular PCP stages.

 Structure of the workshop:

This is a three-day workshop, the first day will include discussion on regional and country challenges in FMD control, principles of the PCP-FMD and OIE PVS and PCP alignment. The second day will include presentations on the current state of the PSO network, on the Risk assessment Plan and the Risk Based Strategic Plan (outcome indicators for stage 1 and 2 respectively) with reviewing exercises. The third and final day of the workshop will include presentations of PCP tools developed by EuFMD and the proposed PSO training development. For additional details, please refer to the attached agenda.