-
What is foot-and-mouth disease and how does it spread?
Foot-and-mouth disease is a viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, and pigs. It spreads through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated equipment, or even through the air over short distances. The recent outbreak in Hungary and Slovakia has highlighted the ease with which the virus can spread, prompting urgent containment measures.
-
What measures are being taken in Hungary and Slovakia?
In response to the outbreak, Hungary has culled nearly 3,000 cattle to prevent further spread of the disease. Slovakia has also closed 16 border crossings due to insufficient containment measures from Hungary. These actions aim to control the outbreak and protect local livestock from infection.
-
How does this outbreak affect global trade and farming?
The outbreak has significant implications for global trade, particularly in the meat and dairy sectors. The UK has implemented strict import bans on meat and dairy products from EU countries to prevent the disease from entering its borders. This disruption not only affects farmers in the affected regions but also has ripple effects on food security and trade relationships across Europe.
-
What are the risks to humans and livestock?
Foot-and-mouth disease poses little risk to human health; however, it can have devastating effects on livestock. Infected animals may suffer from fever, blisters, and lameness, leading to severe economic losses for farmers. The primary concern is the impact on livestock health and the agricultural economy rather than direct risks to human health.
-
What should farmers do to protect their herds?
Farmers should implement strict biosecurity measures to protect their herds from foot-and-mouth disease. This includes isolating new animals, disinfecting equipment, and monitoring for signs of illness. Staying informed about local outbreaks and following government guidelines is crucial for preventing the spread of the disease.