Assessment of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Trends in Türkiye Between 2005 and 2025

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral illness that continues to threaten livestock health, productivity, and trade, particularly in countries like Türkiye where multiple FMD serotypes cocirculate. This study aimed to analyze the temporal and spatial distributions, serotype dynamics, and seasonal patterns of FMD in Türkiye between 2005 and 2025. The geographical distribution of national FMD surveillance data spanning 2005-2025 was analyzed, together with a time series analysis to evaluate trends and seasonality in the number of FMD-reported outbreaks (number of villages affected by FMD outbreaks). Additionally, event-driven outbreaks were assessed by analyzing the number of reported outbreaks when a serotype introduction occurred and during Kurban Bayramı festivities. The results showed that the number of FMD-reported outbreaks peaked between 2010 and 2016, with serotype O accounting for the majority of reported outbreaks. A decline in outbreaks followed, likely attributable to expanded vaccination coverage, improved diagnostic capacity, and the implementation of targeted control measures. Seasonal patterns indicated a higher concentration of outbreaks during the spring months. Furthermore, it was noted that introductions of serotypes, lineages, or sublineages contributed to an increase in outbreaks in the months surrounding these events, and the same was observed when Kurban Bayramı festivities occurred. Although Türkiye has made progress in reducing the FMD burden, the emergence of new serotypes highlights the ongoing risk of serotype diversification and underscores the need for adaptable, serotype-specific surveillance, and control strategies. Strengthening early detection systems, maintaining high vaccine coverage, and fostering regional cooperation remain essential for sustainable FMD management.