Saxony demands nationwide solidarity for animal diseases

Saxony calls on the federal government and other federal states to show solidarity in the fight against animal diseases. "This cannot be the responsibility of just one state. In the case of African swine fever (ASF), we can see that Hesse and North Rhine-Westphalia are now also affected," said Health Minister Petra Köpping (SPD). Saxony had spent around 50 million euros on combating ASF and had been left alone with the costs - although the protective measures would have minimized the risk of spread to other states as well.

Animal diseases know no borders

Saxony's Minister of Agriculture and the Environment Georg-Ludwig von Breitenbuch (CDU) also criticized the fact that other states and the federal government had taken a "lean approach" to ASF. It was clear that animal disease control could not just be considered for one region, one district and one federal state. "It is a shame that we have not experienced more solidarity." However, awareness of the issue has grown. It is now present among the authorities and the population.

Saxony is prepared for foot-and-mouth disease

In view of the current risks of an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Germany, Köpping and von Breitenbuch believe that Saxony is well prepared. However, precautions must be taken. Köpping points out that there are also many livestock farmers with small herds in the Free State. They do not necessarily have much experience in combating epidemics.

"We have had to learn a lot from African swine fever - including how prevention works," emphasized the Minister. In the past, the problem of bird flu was approached differently and the entire country was de facto cordoned off. "Now we do this selectively and regionally." Saxony was the second federal state after Brandenburg to experience an outbreak of ASF in 2020. A spread to domestic pigs was prevented.

Minister sees no reason to panic

"We are glad that there has not yet been another case of foot-and-mouth disease in Germany. But we are also prepared. Panic and excitement are not necessary. The State Examination Office, veterinary offices, associations and the Chamber of Veterinarians are all able to act in the event of an outbreak of the disease." The EU requires emergency plans to be drawn up. Saxony has set up an animal disease task force in the Ministry of Social Affairs.

According to Köpping, farms must review their biosecurity measures and adhere to them consistently. The aim is to protect livestock through high standards. In addition to an educational film, which can be viewed on the ministry's website, laminated instructions in several languages have been sent to 18,000 farms. These are weatherproof and can be attached to the stable door. "My conclusion: we are in a position to combat the animal disease. We are doing everything we can to prevent it from coming in the first place," added the Minister of Health.

Guideline for action on foot-and-mouth disease in progress

At the meeting of representatives from both ministries as well as veterinary authorities, associations and the food industry, the key points for a Saxon guideline for action on foot-and-mouth disease were also outlined. The necessary measures in the event of an outbreak will be agreed in three working groups, which will deal with issues such as the disposal of animal carcasses and the handling of milk from any restricted zones. The guidelines for action are to be drawn up in the coming months.

People cannot become infected

Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease in cloven-hoofed animals. Humans cannot become infected. It is very painful for animals and is often fatal. The disease can spread quickly. Entire herds with just one sick animal must be culled. Affected farms must be isolated. Regular cleaning of stables, equipment and vehicles is necessary.