Veterinary medicine in the media society--science and media in relation to FMD

The outbreak and explosive spread of foot-and-mouth disease in the European Union brought about an intense discussion in the media. FMD was an outstanding media topic in Germany. But the scientific experts of veterinary medicine had no prominent role in this public debate. The reason for this fact seemed to be a lack of competence to present themselves and their knowledge in the media arena. The scientists should try to fit themselves in the media society by training their communication competence.