Following the confirmation of a case of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Germany, the UK has implemented a ban on the importation of cattle, pigs, and sheep from the country. This measure is intended to safeguard UK farmers and their livelihoods.

While FMD does not pose a risk to human health or food safety, it is highly contagious among cattle, sheep, pigs, and other cloven-hoofed animals.

An outbreak of FMD can have devastating consequences for both livestock and the economy, so farmers and livestock keepers are urged to remain vigilant for symptoms and maintain strict biosecurity measures.

Symptoms of Foot and Mouth Disease

The clinical signs of FMD can vary depending on the species affected:

  • Cattle: Key symptoms include sores and blisters on the feet, mouth, and tongue. Fever, lameness, and a reluctance to feed may also be observed.
  • Pigs and sheep: These animals may exhibit lameness and, in some cases, blistering.

For further guidance on recognising the signs of FMD, visit this link.

Reporting and legal obligations

As a legally notifiable disease, any suspected case of FMD must be reported immediately.

The import ban aims to minimise the risk of further transmission and protect the UK’s agricultural sector from the significant impacts of an outbreak.

See: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-introduces-import-ban-of-cattle-pigs-and-sheep-from-germany-to-protect-farmers-after-foot-and-mouth-case