Foot-and-mouth disease - authorities in Saxony vigilant

After the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in a herd of buffalo in Brandenburg, the responsible authorities in Saxony are also on alert. "The state animal disease control center is on duty and ready to act. The task now is to contain the herd of infection and prevent the spread of this disease, which is dangerous for so many animals," explained Petra Köpping (SPD), the Minister of Social Affairs responsible for animal disease control. All veterinary offices, the state testing institute, the associations of the affected economic groups and the Chamber of Veterinarians in Saxony have been informed. Quick action and the utmost vigilance from all involved is necessary, said the minister.

Mouth and foot-and-mouth disease broke out in a herd of water buffalo in the Brandenburg town of Hönow, which is not far from the Berlin city limits. It is the first outbreak in Germany for around 35 years.

Authorities in Saxony on alert

The virus is not dangerous for humans, but is highly contagious for cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. Zoo and wild animals can also fall ill. According to the ministry, if even one animal on a farm falls ill, all cloven-hoofed animals must be killed and destroyed. Livestock dealers and livestock farms in Saxony that have recently purchased animals from Brandenburg are requested to report to the responsible veterinary office immediately. In addition, events and auctions with endangered animal species are to be banned for the time being, it said.

"An outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease is a catastrophe for agriculture," emphasized Köpping. On the one hand, it is about animal welfare and, on the other, the risk of high economic damage. "It is good that Brandenburg is acting so quickly and that the corresponding crisis team was activated immediately at federal level."

The development is being followed with concern throughout Germany. Federal Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir (CDU) reacted by convening a central crisis team and plans to speak with representatives of the agricultural sector at the beginning of the week