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Hungary has reported its first case of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in over 50 years, marking a concerning development for the country’s livestock industry. The National Food Chain Safety Office (Nebih) confirmed the outbreak on Friday, after it was detected earlier this month at a cattle farm in Kisbajcs, located in the northwest of Hungary.
The farm in question houses approximately 1,400 cattle, where laboratory tests have confirmed the presence of the highly contagious viral disease. In response, authorities have swiftly imposed restrictions to prevent further spread.
Hungary’s chief veterinary officer has ordered the immediate closure of the affected farm while an investigation is underway to trace the origin of the infection. To contain the disease, strict control measures have been introduced, including a ban on transporting susceptible animals and products associated with them.
Foot-and-mouth disease primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. Symptoms of FMD include fever, loss of appetite, excessive salivation, and the appearance of blisters on the mouth and feet. Though it is extremely rare for humans to contract the virus, Nebih emphasized the economic impact of an outbreak. FMD is notorious for its rapid transmission, and the mandatory culling of infected herds can result in substantial financial losses.
“In the event of a confirmed case, all cloven-hoofed animals on the farm must be destroyed,” Nebih said, adding that the eradication process of the infected herd has begun alongside efforts to pinpoint the source of the virus.
Farmers across Hungary are being urged to maintain strict biosecurity protocols and to promptly report any suspected cases of the disease to help prevent its further spread.
Disclaimer: While foot-and-mouth disease can have a significant impact on livestock, it is important to note that the virus very rarely spreads to humans. The measures implemented by Hungarian authorities are aimed at protecting both the agriculture industry and public health.
