Measures to protect the Isle of Man from foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) have been increased following a confirmed outbreak in Hungary this week.
The highly contagious disease was discovered on a cattle farm near the Hungarian border with Slovakia.
In response, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) has implemented immediate measures to prevent the importation of cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats from both countries.
The ban extends to other non-domestic ruminants and porcines, such as deer, as well as their untreated products, including fresh meat and dairy, aligning restrictions with the UK.
Travellers will no longer be allowed to bring meat, dairy, animal products, hay, or straw into the Isle of Man from the affected countries to protect farmers and their livestock.
Vigilant
The island’s Chief Veterinary Officer is urging farmers to remain vigilant for clinical signs of FMD in light of the recent outbreaks in Hungary and Germany.
There are currently no cases in the UK.
Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Amy Beckett said: “These enhanced restrictions are a crucial step in protecting our agricultural industry. I would urge livestock keepers to exercise the utmost vigilance for signs of disease, follow strict biosecurity measures, and report any suspicions to DEFA immediately.”
The last major outbreaks in the UK occurred in 2001 and 2007, resulting in the culling of millions of animals.
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