Polish veterinary services have taken decisive action to detect an outbreak of foot-and-mouth illness in Germany. The Chief Veterinary Inspectorate informed about the implementation of rigorous controls on the transport of animals entering Poland. These actions are in line with global standards for the protection of animal wellness and the safety of the food chain.
"In addition to controlling the transport of animals susceptible to the illness entering the territory of Poland, information and communication procedures concerning the threat to pigs and ruminants, the meat manufacture and doctors of free practice in Poland were implemented," said the Inspectorate in the communication.
Germany introduces restrictions
On 10 January, German veterinary services reported the first case of foot-and-mouth illness in 3 home oxen in the municipality of Hoppegarten in 37 years, just 70 km from the Polish border. In consequence to the threat, the Brandenburg authorities have introduced a ban on the movement of animals for 72 hours and have designated restricted areas: protection (3 km from the outbreak) and surveillance (10 km from the outbreak). Within a radius of 1 km, all animals of susceptible species were killed and the services began an epidemiological inquiry.
Poland tightens controls
Poland immediately reacted to the threat. On 11 January 2025 a crisis staff was convened in the Main Veterinary Inspectorate, and in Szczecin, Zielona Góra and Wrocław regional crisis management teams were launched. Police, Border Guard, Road Transport Inspection, National taxation Administration and Veterinary Inspection were involved. The state of readiness of the laboratory of the State Veterinary Institute in Puławy was placed to monitor possible cases of disease.
Foot-and-mouth disease: a threat to agriculture
foot-and-mouth illness is simply a highly contagious viral illness that affects cloven-hoofed animals specified as cattle, pigs, sheep and goats. The illness causes serious economical losses as it requires the eradication of infected flocks, which has a direct impact on breeders and the meat industry. Therefore, fast and effective preventive action is so important.
UK reaction
The United Kingdom prohibited imports of bovine animals, swine, sheep and various types of meat and dairy products from Germany following the detection of an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease. "The government will do everything essential to defend farmers in our country from the risks posed by foot-and-mouth disease," said British Deputy Minister for Food Safety Daniel Zeichner.
International cooperation
Polish veterinary services cooperate intensively with German authorities and the European Commission to reduce the hazard of illness spreading. It is crucial to keep a smooth flow of information and to implement procedures consistent with European regulations.
What's next?
The steps taken by Poland are aimed at protecting national agriculture and the meat manufacture against the effects of a possible outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease. The implementation of stringent control measures and cooperation with global partners stay crucial to ensuring national biosecurity.
How can breeders prepare?
Breeders should monitor the wellness of their animals and immediately inform veterinarians of any suspected symptoms. It is besides recommended to reduce the contact of animals with outsiders and to comply with the principles of biosecurity.
Continued here:
Pryszczyca close the Polish border. Crisis management teams have been established
