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The FAO's European Commission for the Control of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (EuFMD) has warned of an increased risk of foot-and-mouth disease in southeastern Europe due to the geographical expansion of serotype SAT1 beyond its historical range, outbreaks in the Middle East, Western Asia, and Europe, and the high number of susceptible livestock in the region due to a lack of immunity to this serotype. The situation is further complicated by the circulation of different topotypes (I and III) and serotypes of the virus (O, A, and SAT2).
The risk is expected to increase during the coming weeks due to increased animal movements for religious festivals and seasonal transhumance, coupled with the greater movement of people and potentially contaminated materials.
Spain's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA) recommends taking extreme precautions to prevent introducing the virus into Spain and Europe. This includes the proper application of cleaning and disinfection protocols in means of transport, strengthening biosecurity on livestock farms, and increasing surveillance at Border Control Posts. It also urges raising awareness among livestock and veterinary sectors about the risk of the disease and intensifying passive surveillance on farms.
April 20, 2026/ MAPA/ Spain.
https://www.mapa.gob.es/
