Welsh Government calls for vigilance following foot and mouth disease case in Germany

Livestock owners in Wales are being urged to remain vigilant after a case of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) was reported in Germany.

Wales’ Chief Veterinary Officer, Richard Irvine, has announced measures to protect livestock, emphasising the importance of biosecurity and early reporting to prevent the disease from spreading.

Richard Irvine stated: “We are aware of the single case of Foot and Mouth Disease in Germany and are working closely with the UK Government to protect our livestock following this unfortunate news. We will continue to monitor the situation closely.

“The import of cattle, pigs, and sheep from Germany is prohibited to protect farmers and their livelihoods. GB import health certificates will no longer be issued for animals susceptible to FMD, including all live animals and fresh meat.

“We have robust contingency plans in place to manage risk and protect farmers and our food security, which means using all measures to limit the risk of incursion and spread of this devastating disease. Foot and Mouth Disease does not pose a risk to human health or food safety.

“I urge livestock keepers to maintain the highest levels of vigilance and biosecurity, and to practice the safe-sourcing of livestock and germinal products to protect our herds and flocks, and keep animal disease out of Wales. If you suspect Foot and Mouth Disease, it is essential to report this immediately.”

Disease Control Measures

To safeguard Welsh livestock, imports of cattle, pigs, and sheep from Germany have been halted, and health certificates for animals susceptible to FMD will no longer be issued.

The Welsh Government has assured farmers that contingency plans are in place to minimise risks to herds, flocks, and food security.

What is Foot and Mouth Disease?

Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and other cloven-hoofed animals.

While the disease poses no risk to human health or food safety, it can cause severe economic and welfare impacts on livestock industries.

The last FMD outbreak in Great Britain occurred in 2007.

There are currently no cases in the UK.

Clinical Signs of Foot and Mouth Disease

Farmers are encouraged to monitor livestock for the following clinical signs, which can vary depending on the species:

• High fever.
• Vesicles (similar to blisters) developing on the coronary band (where the leg’s skin meets the hoof).
• Vesicles on or under the tongue, around the lips, or near the nose.
• Lameness.
• Loss of appetite.

Reporting Suspected Cases

Foot and Mouth Disease is a legally notifiable disease, meaning any suspected cases must be reported immediately. Failure to report is a criminal offence.

Farmers are advised to contact their local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) office immediately on 0300 303 8268 if they suspect the disease in their animals.

APHA vets will conduct investigations into suspected cases.

Keeping Wales Safe

The Welsh Government has called on livestock keepers to prioritise biosecurity, including sourcing animals and germinal products responsibly, to prevent the introduction of disease.

For further guidance, visit the Welsh Government’s biosecurity page at www.gov.wales/biosecurity-guidance.