Close Menu
  • Home
  • Europe
  • United Kingdom
  • World
  • Politics
  • Business
  • Culture
  • Health
  • Sports
  • Tech
  • Travel
Trending

7/7 ‘White Widow’ Samantha Lewthwaite ‘still alive’ according to bombshell intel

July 12, 2025

Erith fire LIVE: Warehouse, crane and vehicles on fire at London industrial estate

July 12, 2025

Two ways people could get ‘early’ Universal Credit payments

July 12, 2025
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram YouTube
Se Connecter
July 12, 2025
Euro News Source
Live Markets Newsletter
  • Home
  • Europe
  • United Kingdom
  • World
  • Politics
  • Business
  • Culture
  • Health
  • Sports
  • Tech
  • Travel
Euro News Source
Home»Europe
Europe

Berlin Conducts Preemptive Culling in Response to First Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak in 35 Years

News RoomBy News RoomJanuary 14, 2025
Facebook Twitter WhatsApp Copy Link Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email Telegram

The recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Germany, the first in over 35 years, has triggered a swift and decisive response from authorities, who are working to contain the highly infectious disease and mitigate its potential economic impact. The initial outbreak was detected on a buffalo farm in Hönow, Brandenburg state, prompting the culling of the affected animals and a 72-hour ban on livestock transportation. Subsequent investigations revealed a link to a farm in Schöneiche, where additional animals were culled as a precautionary measure, bringing the total number of slaughtered animals to 58. While preliminary tests suggest the disease is contained within these two farms, officials remain cautious and are conducting further analyses to confirm the extent of the outbreak.

The rapid response underscores the seriousness of the situation, given the potential for widespread economic repercussions. Germany’s animal product exports generate approximately €10 billion annually, with significant trade ties to countries like the United Kingdom. The loss of FMD-free status, a crucial certification for international trade, poses a significant threat to these exports. Bans imposed by third countries on German animal products, including milk, dairy, meat, hides, skins, and blood products, are anticipated, further exacerbating the economic fallout. Federal Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir emphasized the priority of containing the disease to minimize its impact on livestock farmers and the export industry.

The outbreak raises concerns about the potential for further spread, despite initial indications of containment. The 72-hour transport ban reflects the urgency of preventing the disease from reaching other farms. Ongoing testing and monitoring are crucial to assess the effectiveness of containment measures and determine whether further actions, such as extending the transport ban, are necessary. While officials express cautious optimism, the situation remains fluid, and the full extent of the outbreak’s impact remains to be seen.

The reappearance of FMD in Germany, after decades of absence, highlights the persistent challenge posed by animal diseases. FMD is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, causing fever and blisters in the mouth. While not transmissible to humans through contact or consumption of infected animal products, its rapid spread among livestock can necessitate large-scale culling to eradicate the disease. Decades ago, FMD outbreaks were widespread, requiring extensive control measures. Systematic vaccination programs successfully controlled the disease in Europe until the early 1990s, when vaccination was discontinued after years of disease-free status.

The current outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in preventing and controlling animal diseases. The swift response by German authorities, including culling, transport restrictions, and extensive testing, reflects the lessons learned from past outbreaks. The economic implications underscore the need for robust biosecurity measures and international cooperation to prevent the spread of FMD and other transboundary animal diseases. The ongoing monitoring and analysis of the situation will be crucial to inform future strategies for managing and mitigating the risks associated with FMD.

The situation in Germany underscores the delicate balance between maintaining disease-free status and the potential for resurgence. The discontinuation of vaccination programs in Europe, following years of successful FMD control, highlights the complexities of disease management. While vaccination can be effective, it also carries costs and logistical challenges. The current outbreak may prompt a reevaluation of vaccination strategies and biosecurity measures to prevent future occurrences. International collaboration and information sharing will be essential in developing effective strategies to combat FMD and other transboundary animal diseases in an increasingly interconnected world. The lessons learned from this outbreak will be valuable in strengthening global preparedness and response to future animal health emergencies.

Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Telegram WhatsApp Email

Keep Reading

Ukraine and EU launch €100 million military innovation partnership, officials in Rome say

Europe July 11, 2025

Portugal’s parliament reclassifies rape as public crime bringing it in line with Europe

Europe July 11, 2025

EU vows to protect Ukrainian culture as Russia targets over 500 heritage sites

Europe July 11, 2025

How have cuts to humanitarian aid impacted the sector?

Europe July 11, 2025

Bulgaria wonders where the elusive black panther went after authorities end weeks-long search

Europe July 11, 2025

EU’s ‘reluctance’ to act over Israel criticised by 27 former ambassadors

Europe July 11, 2025

Von der Leyen wounded: 5 Ways EU confidence vote shook her

Europe July 11, 2025

‘We need finances’ and drones, Zelenskyy tells European allies at Rome conference

Europe July 11, 2025

European allies step up plans for Ukraine stabilisation force with US attending talks

Europe July 10, 2025

Editors Picks

Erith fire LIVE: Warehouse, crane and vehicles on fire at London industrial estate

July 12, 2025

Two ways people could get ‘early’ Universal Credit payments

July 12, 2025

‘Doctors kept saying I was stressed – but I actually have an overlooked condition’

July 11, 2025

Urgent update from police on missing boy, 11, after hundreds of locals join search

July 11, 2025

Latest News

Ryanair flight from Mallorca descends into ‘chaos’ as police board plane

July 11, 2025

‘Despicable’ paedophile set dogs on animals including pet cat and filmed attacks

July 11, 2025

US appeals court throws out plea deal for alleged mastermind of 11 September terror attacks

July 11, 2025

Subscribe to News

Get the latest Europe and World news and updates directly to your inbox.

Facebook X (Twitter) Pinterest Instagram
2025 © Euro News Source. All Rights Reserved.
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms
  • Contact

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Sign In or Register

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below.

Lost password?