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Precautionary SAGE: UK preparedness for a potential Foot-and-Mouth (FMD) Disease Outbreak

Record of the discussion that took place at a precautionary Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) meeting on foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).

• From: Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies and Government Office for Science
• Published: 9 September 2025

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Precautionary SAGE: UK Preparedness for a potential Foot-and-Mouth (FMD) Disease outbreak

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Precautionary SAGE: UK Preparedness for a potential Foot-and-Mouth (FMD) Disease outbreak pdf

PDF, 266 KB, 9 pages

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A precautionary SAGE is a well-established mechanism through which scientific and technical experts can be convened to consider emerging hazards and ensure the coordination of scientific advice and evidence in government. A precautionary SAGE is not necessarily a precursor to a full SAGE meeting, which must be requested by the Cabinet Office (CO).

Record of the discussion that took place at a precautionary SAGE meeting on foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). This was a forward-looking and preparatory discussion aimed to bring together veterinary, scientific, and policy experts to review current evidence and identify areas for further exploration. During the meeting, experts proposed further questions that were not covered in the meeting. These questions do not signify gaps in the government’s preparedness or response plans, but instead reflect the group’s views on questions that could be asked in the event of a future UK outbreak.   

SAGE provides scientific and technical advice to support government decision makers during emergencies.

Published 9 September 2025