Understanding Animal Health in Southeast Asia

Livestock diseases inflict severe social and economic damage in developing countries, yet decision-makers often lack the reliable information necessary to target control measures effectively. This monograph presents the results of extensive research aimed at revolutionizing animal health information systems in Southeast Asia, moving from passive data gathering to a strategic, information technology-based active surveillance approach.

The text integrates diverse disciplines to build a comprehensive framework for disease management. It details methods for obtaining cost-effective population-referenced data, improving laboratory diagnostic procedures, and utilizing Geographical Information Systems (GIS) for spatial analysis and outbreak management. Furthermore, it incorporates economic analyses to evaluate the impact of diseases such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and the cost-benefit payoff of their control and eradication programs.

Drawing on case studies from Thailand and Lao PDR, as well as reviews from across the region, this book lays the groundwork for modern veterinary services in developing nations. It introduces foundational concepts for tools like the “Survey Toolbox” to support substantiation of freedom from disease and international trade.

Modern iterations of these surveillance and analysis tools are available online at EpiMundi’s ShinyEpiTools