Annual Reconfirmations for the Maintenance of Official Status

In line with WOAH’s 7th Strategic Plan for optimising data governance through digital transformation, the Organisation has launched the Disease Status Management Platform (DSMP).

This platform offers a secure, centralised system to track, search, submit and archive all relevant documents related to the official recognition and maintenance of animal health status, as well as the self-declaration of disease freedom. At the same time, it facilitates information exchange between WOAH and its Members, ensuring that Members can access their documents and reports at any time, easily and securely. In addition, the platform provides a way to consult relevant guidance on these procedures.

Annual Reconfirmation component of the platform

The DSMP’s first component, the website for Annual Reconfirmation, was introduced in November 2023. The platform comprises two additional components that are currently in development: one for submitting applications for the official recognition of an animal health status and endorsement of official control programmes and the other for the publication of self-declarations. 

During October 2023, the Status Department conducted a series of regional webinars to introduce Members to this new tool. These webinars were specifically designed to train Members on the requirements and procedures for the maintenance of animal health status and endorsed programmes on the submission of their annual reconfirmations using the DMSP.

Promoting the platform at the upcoming General Session

To further divulge the DSMP, notably the Annual Reconfirmation tool, an exhibition stand will be held during the 91st General Session of the World Assembly of Delegates in May. Attendants can learn about the platform’s ongoing developments, gain first-hand experience of using it, and learn how to take full advantage of its functionalities. Guidance on the Annual Reconfirmation procedure and the necessary supportive information for submissions will also be offered. Attendants will also have a chance to discuss any specific issues or difficulties encountered when they used the DSMP for the first time during the 2023 annual reconfirmation campaign. Further information about the platform’s upcoming advancements will also be made available.

A new Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) annual reconfirmation form

The Status Department will also promote the new BSE annual reconfirmation form, specifically designed to accommodate the recently adopted changes to the BSE standards in May 2023. This form will be used for the first time during the 2024 annual reconfirmation campaign.

Members wishing to have a one-on-one session with the Status Department during the General Session can schedule an appointment by email at disease.status@woah.org before 7 May 2024.

Contact: WOAH Status Department (disease.status@woah.org)