Under the patronage of Professor Dr. Walid Nassar Jaffal, Dean of the College of Medicine, the Continuing Education Unit of the college organized a specialized workshop titled "Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Pathogen, Spread, and Control Methods" as part of efforts to address the recent outbreak of the disease in Iraq and propose scientific solutions to mitigate its effects.

Workshop Themes:

The workshop focused on four main themes:

1. The Pathogen of Foot-and-Mouth Disease:

   • Analysis of the biological characteristics of the virus and diagnostic methods.

2. Patterns of Spread:

   • Examination of environmental and social factors contributing to the disease's spread.

3. Control and Prevention Strategies:

   • Presentation of the latest global programs to reduce infections.

4. The Role of Media in Awareness:

   • Discussion on utilizing media to promote public health awareness.

Speakers:

• Dr. Ali Sami Thiab – PhD in Microbiology / Veterinary Hospital in Anbar.
• Associate Professor Dr. Ahmed Khalaf Sofi – Head of the Public Health Department.
• Lecturer Mohammed Ali Shahoud – Department of Anatomy.

The session was moderated by Professor Dr. Mahdi Saleh Shalal, Head of the Anatomy Department, who emphasized in his opening remarks the "importance of collaboration between medical and veterinary disciplines to address cross-border health challenges."

Dean's Remarks:

The Dean stated that "this workshop is a response to the current health reality and reflects the college’s commitment to its societal role in combating epidemics," while commending the efforts of the speakers and attendees, including teaching and technical staff.

This workshop is part of a series of activities implemented by the Continuing Education Unit to enhance the scientific and practical skills of medical professionals, aligning with Anbar University’s strategy to serve the community.