Newsroom
Veterinary authorities have moved to allay public concern over foot-and-mouth disease, stressing that the illness poses no risk to human health. The disease affects only animals, primarily cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and other cloven-hoofed species, and can have severe economic repercussions due to sharp drops in productivity. There is currently no cure.
The clarification follows recent media reports referring to a suspected case of foot-and-mouth disease in the occupied areas. While the disease does not infect people, officials underline that its spread among livestock can be highly damaging, both directly and indirectly, to the agricultural sector.
Because of these risks, professionals who work with animals are urged to strictly follow biosecurity practices. Recommended measures include the use of protective clothing and footwear, frequent handwashing, and regular disinfection to reduce the likelihood of disease transmission during routine work.
Livestock farmers are also reminded of their responsibility to maintain strict hygiene and monitoring standards on their farms. Authorities advise disinfecting entry and exit points, carrying out systematic cleaning and disinfection of facilities, removing waste, manure, and standing water from surrounding areas, and avoiding the use of vehicles, equipment, feed, or tools sourced from other farms. Farmers are further encouraged to check their animals daily and to immediately inform Veterinary Services if they observe signs of illness or an unexpected decline in milk production.
