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Today the veterinary authorities of Slovakia have confirmed the presence of foot and mouth disease (FMD) on three cattle farms located in the south of the country, specifically in the districts of Komárno and Dunajská Streda, bordering Hungary, where, as reported on March 7, the presence of the disease was confirmed after more than 50 years free of FMD. This is the third European country to confirm the presence of the disease after the virus reappeared in Germany in early January. The last recorded outbreak in Slovakia was also more than half a century ago.
Following the confirmation of the disease in Hungary in the municipality of Kisbajcs (Györ district), close to the border with Slovakia, the Slovak veterinary authorities established a restriction zone in the border districts of Dunajská Streda and Komárno.
In light of the confirmation of the disease in the national territory, measures have been adopted that include a total ban on the movement of susceptible animals (cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and other artiodactyls, including farm animals), both within the country and in international transit, except for strictly controlled exceptions within the same farm. The use of certain border crossings is also prohibited, as well as the organization of fairs, exhibitions, and other events with the presence of susceptible animals.
All animal owners must apply rigorous hygiene and disinfection measures in facilities, vehicles, and equipment, and should immediately report any suspicion of the disease to the veterinary authorities. Dead animals should be disposed of only in approved facilities. In addition, all facilities open to the public with susceptible animals, such as zoos and circuses, should be temporarily closed.
These measures aim to rapidly halt the spread of the virus, which is considered a serious threat to the country's animal health.
March 21, 2025/ SVPS/ Slovakia.
https://svps.sk/
