European countries face foot-and-mouth disease alerts due to outbreaks, leading to border closures and strict control measures.
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Several European countries are on alert due to outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in livestock, leading to border closures. The first outbreak was confirmed in Germany in January. FMD is a highly contagious viral disease affecting various cloven-hoofed animals, posing significant risks due to its transmissibility and economic impact, causing fever and lesions that reduce animal productivity. While the disease does not affect humans, it concerns countries like Spain because of their large cattle and pork industries. In case of an outbreak, strict control measures are implemented, including establishing protection and surveillance zones, isolating affected areas, and restricting movement of animals and products. Countries like Austria have tightened restrictions following outbreaks in neighboring Slovakia and Hungary, implementing border closures and enhanced sanitary controls. Even countries without current cases are increasing vigilance due to the potential economic disruption from forced animal culling and supply chain interruptions. European institutions support member states by providing training and guidance for emergency preparedness against FMD.
