News

On 26 June 2026, specialists from the FGBI “ARRIAH” took part in an online seminar for the competent veterinary authorities of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) Member States, dedicated to the submission of applications and the confirmation of official status regarding bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) at the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

The event brought together international WOAH experts, representatives of the EAEU countries, as well as relevant specialists in epidemiology and veterinary surveillance.

During the seminar, the participants discussed updated WOAH approaches to the assessment and maintenance of national BSE status, including amendments to the Terrestrial Animal Health Code, as well as improvements to epidemiological surveillance procedures, data documentation, and annual status reconfirmation.

Particular attention was given to changes in the requirements for countries already holding official status, including the enhanced role of the evidence base, standardization of surveillance procedures, and increased transparency of the data provided. Approaches to targeted epidemiological surveillance for BSE were also discussed, including sampling strategy, risk groups, and the principles for confirming the absence of pathogen circulation within the population.

A report on the Russian national bovine spongiform encephalopathy control system was delivered by Yelena Chernyshova, Head of the Reference Laboratory for Rabies and BSE at the FGBI “ARRIAH”, Candidate of Science (Veterinary Medicine).

She shared the experience of the Russian Federation in maintaining the “controlled risk” status assigned to the country in 2022. According to Yelena Chernyshova, the control system in Russia is based on a multi-tiered approach and encompasses epidemiological surveillance, laboratory monitoring, feed control, and regulatory oversight.

The speaker specifically noted that the key element of the system is the prevention of the use of ruminant proteins in the feeding of cattle, which is historically recognized as the primary factor in the spread of BSE.

She emphasized that a comprehensive set of measures is in place in Russia, including veterinary regulations, methodological guidelines, and a state control system at all stages of feed production and circulation. It was also noted that laboratory confirmation plays a significant role—including the testing of feed and biological samples within the framework of federal monitoring, as well as the continuing professional development of state veterinary service specialists.

In the expert's view, the annual documentation of data and the submission of reports to WOAH ensure the transparency of the national system and confirm its compliance with international requirements.

During the consultations, the participants also discussed practical aspects of implementing the updated WOAH procedures, shared their experience among the EAEU countries, and considered approaches to improving veterinary surveillance systems.

In conclusion, the participants agreed that the development of harmonized international approaches to BSE control enhances the effectiveness of epidemiological surveillance and strengthens mutual confidence among countries.