Even though there are still no cases of foot-and-mouth disease in Austria, the Department of Veterinary Affairs and Food Control of the State of Lower Austria believes it is important that hygiene and precautionary measures are taken in Austria, especially in the agricultural sector. Preventing the introduction of the virus is the primary goal. Furthermore, it is also important to raise awareness among those who will be staying in the outbreak regions in Hungary and Slovakia during the upcoming holiday season.
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, but also camelids such as llamas and alpacas.
Precautionary Measures on the Farm
Even though the virus is harmless to humans, the long-term impact on farms and the region is enormous. "It is all the more important to prevent the introduction of this dangerous disease and to observe certain precautionary measures now," says State Veterinary Director Schiefer. Farmers are currently implementing biosecurity measures on their farms. Now is the right time to implement hygiene measures on the farm. It is important that only those who are required to work there enter the barn. Unfamiliar persons should be provided with farm-owned stable clothing.
Extra Caution During the Holiday Season
Access by non-farm personnel to animals that may be infected should therefore be minimized to the absolute minimum. If this cannot be completely prevented, hygiene and disinfection measures must be strictly observed. Thorough hand washing, disinfection of hands, use of farm-owned stable clothing, and access only via a disinfection tray are recommended. Particular caution is required when people from outbreak areas come to the farm.
No import of raw animal products
Raw milk and fresh meat from infected areas also pose a significant risk. It is important that no such products are imported or brought into the country. The import of raw milk and fresh meat, especially from Hungary and Slovakia, is currently prohibited by law and is also subject to controls at border crossings.
Extreme caution when traveling to FMD zones
In view of the upcoming holiday season, it is important to note that the virus can be transmitted not only from animal to animal, but also via contaminated material. It is therefore especially important for farmers to avoid contact with potentially infected farms in FMD restricted zones abroad.
Virus "sticks"
This warning applies to all persons staying in FMD restricted zones. Since the virus is very resilient and can stick to shoe soles, car tires, clothing, and even survive for long periods when frozen, special caution and care are required. The introduction of the virus would threaten the existence of these farms.
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