Farmers warned as foot-and-mouth confirmed in Cyprus

UK farmers have been warned to remain vigilant to the signs of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) after it was confirmed in cattle and sheep in Cyprus.

In response, the government has imposed restrictions on certain Cypriot commercial imports to Great Britain to mitigate disease risk and safeguard UK livestock, agricultural production, and biosecurity. 

There are currently no cases in the UK. FMD poses no risk to human or food safety, but is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals.

See also: South Africa secures vaccine to tackle foot-and-mouth

UK chief veterinary officer Dr Christine Middlemiss said: “We remain in contact with our European counterparts to understand the latest situation.  

“Robust plans are already in place to minimise the risk of disease incursion to support Britain’s farming community and food security.” 

NFU president Tom Bradshaw added: “Twenty-five years ago today, we were less than a week into the devastating foot-and-mouth outbreak.

“That crisis cost the UK economy billions, and I know the emotional scars still remain.”

He added that the swift action to restrict imports from Cyprus was welcome, but more had to be done to improve biosecurity.

“We need to see government fighting illegal meat imports, ensuring the Border Force have the resources they need to stamp out this practice,” he said.

He urged all UK keepers to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases.

“It’s also vital that tourists and hauliers play their part and adhere to strict biosecurity and personal import rules,” said Mr Bradshaw.

Restrictions

The restrictions cover the import hay and straw, live animals of FMD-susceptible species, such cows and sheep, and germplasm.

Also restricted are fresh meat, meat products (unless appropriately heat-treated), milk and dairy products (unless suitably treated), and animal by-products such as pet food. 

Commercial imports of cheeses from Cyprus, including halloumi, remain permitted provided they meet the heat-treatment requirements and are accompanied by the mandatory health certificate.

Utmost vigilance

In cattle, the main signs include sores, blisters on feet, mouth, tongue, possibly fever, lameness, and reluctance to feed. Sheep and pigs mainly show lameness and blistering.      

“Livestock keepers are reminded to continue exercising the utmost vigilance for signs of disease, follow scrupulous biosecurity and report any suspicion of disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency [Apha],” added Ms Middlemiss.

Foot-and-mouth disease is a notifiable disease and must be reported immediately.

If you suspect FMD in your animals, call:

• England: 03000 200 301 
• Wales: 0300 303 8268
• Scotland: Your local  Apha Field Services Office