The Czech Republic has reinstated border controls with Slovakia following an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) among cattle on three Slovak farms. The decision was made in collaboration with the Czech Police and Interior Minister Vit Rakusan to prevent the spread of the highly contagious disease.
Czech Agriculture Minister Marek Vyborny confirmed that police and veterinary inspectors are monitoring four main border crossings with Slovakia, ensuring a strict ban on importing livestock from the affected regions.
Vyborny also reached out to leaders of major agricultural unions and associations, urging their members to follow emergency measures and adhere to strict biosecurity protocols.
On social media platform X, Vyborny appealed to farmers not to underestimate the importance of protective measures for their livestock. He highlighted the need for rigorous hygiene, regular disinfection, and strict restrictions on unauthorised entry to livestock facilities.
The border restrictions come shortly after the Czech Republic lifted a similar ban on transporting susceptible animals from Slovakia and Hungary. The earlier ban was imposed due to FMD outbreaks in those countries but was lifted just days ago.
Foot-and-mouth disease primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. Symptoms of the disease include fever, excessive salivation, blisters on the mouth and feet, and a loss of appetite.
According to the State Veterinary Administration of the Czech Republic, the virus is mainly spread through direct animal contact and inhalation, but human activity and wild animals like wild boars can also transmit the disease.
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