Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 7, A significant outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) has been reported in Slovakia, affecting approximately 3,000 dairy cows and 600 calves in a cluster near the border with Austria. This marks the fifth FMD outbreak in the country in a short span. The cluster is isolated from previous cases, which were within a 10-kilometer radius, except one.

The potential source of infection could be from affected farms in Hungary, with ongoing spread concerns. The Slovak government is culling affected cows, while the risk of FMD transmission to pigs remains a concern, given FirstFarms' presence in pig farming in the region.

To prevent the import of live cattle and dairy products from Austria, the UK government has imposed import restrictions. This follows a protective zone around the Hungarian cluster, which now extends into Austria. Similar bans are in place for Hungary and Slovakia.

Veterinary Services Head Christine Middlemiss urges farmers to remain vigilant, advising them to report any suspicions of FMD immediately to authorities. Farmers should take all necessary precautions to prevent the import of potentially risky products.

This situation underscores the importance of proactive measures in managing animal health crises and highlights the need for coordinated international efforts to address the FMD outbreak.