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Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) Outbreak in Germany: An Overview

On January 10, 2025, Germany reported its first outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) since 1988. The outbreak was detected in a herd of water buffaloes near Berlin, specifically in the municipality of Hoppegarten in Brandenburg. 

The Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Germany's National Reference Laboratory for FMD, identified the virus as serotype O.

What is FMD?
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and deer. While it is not transmissible to humans, it causes significant economic losses due to decreased milk and meat production and restrictions on animal exports.
https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1201578

Clinical Signs and Transmission
The clinical signs of FMD include fever, blisters on the tongue, lips, and hooves, excessive salivation, loss of appetite, lameness, and a drop in milk yield. The disease spreads rapidly through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated equipment, and even through the air over short distances
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Response and Control Measures
Upon confirmation of the outbreak, German authorities implemented strict control measures to prevent the spread of the disease. These measures included:
  • Culling of Infected Animals: All susceptible animals on the affected farm were culled to contain the virus.
  • Establishment of Protection and Surveillance Zones: A protection zone and a surveillance zone were established around the outbreak site to monitor and control animal movements.
  • Movement Restrictions: Restrictions were placed on the movement of live animals and animal products from the affected areas.
Economic Impact
The outbreak has had a significant economic impact on Germany's livestock industry. The country lost its status as "FMD-free without vaccination," which has led to immediate restrictions on the export of animal products such as meat, dairy, and hides. This has disrupted trade and caused financial losses for farmers and exporters.

Evolution and Future Outlook
The exact source of the outbreak remains unknown, but the virus is believed to have been introduced from regions where FMD is still prevalent, such as parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. 
The rapid response by German authorities has been crucial in containing the outbreak, but ongoing vigilance and biosecurity measures will be essential to prevent future occurrences.

In conclusion, the FMD outbreak in Germany serves as a reminder of the importance of robust animal health surveillance systems and rapid response mechanisms. Continued research and international cooperation are vital to managing and eventually eradicating this highly contagious disease.

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