CATTLE HEALTH & MANAGEMENT

As of March 21, 2025, Slovakia has reported its first cases of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in over 50 years. The outbreak has been confirmed at three farms in the southern regions of Komárno and Dunajská Streda [1] [2] . This follows a recent outbreak in neighboring Hungary, raising concerns about the spread of the disease in Central Europe. Outbreak Details The affected farms have reported classic symptoms of FMD, including fever, blisters in the mouth, and lameness in cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, swine, sheep, and goats [1] [2] . The Slovak Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, led by Minister Richard Takáč, has confirmed the presence of the virus and is taking immediate action to contain the outbreak [2] [3] . Containment Measures In response to the outbreak, Slovakia has implemented several control measures: Movement Restrictions : A ban on the movement of susceptible animals and their products from the affected areas. Culling : Infected and at-risk animals are b...

In 2024, Central Europe faced a significant outbreak of Bluetongue Virus Serotype 3 (BTV-3), affecting multiple countries and causing widespread concern among livestock farmers and veterinary authorities. As we move into the new risk season, it's crucial to remain vigilant and prepared . Outbreak Overview The outbreak began in late August 2023, with the first case detected in Norfolk, England. By December 2024, BTV-3 had spread to numerous countries, including Norway, Czechia, Austria, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Poland [1] [2] . The virus primarily affects ruminants such as sheep, cattle, and goats, causing symptoms like fever, swelling, and hemorrhages. Spread and Impact The rapid spread of BTV-3 was facilitated by the movement of infected animals and the activity of Culicoides midges, which are the primary vectors for the virus. By the end of 2024, over 5,900 outbreaks had been reported across Europe [2] . Countries like Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands saw signifi...

On March 7, 2025, Hungary reported its first outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in over 50 years. The National Food Chain Safety Office (Nébih) confirmed the presence of the FMD virus on a cattle farm in the Kisbajcs region. This outbreak has significant implications for the country's livestock industry and its economy. The Outbreak Details The affected farm, home to 1,400 cattle, exhibited classic symptoms of FMD at the beginning of March. These symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, excessive salivation, and the appearance of blisters in the mouth and on the feet of the animals [1] [2] . The Nébih laboratory and the national chief veterinarian confirmed the presence of the pathogen, prompting immediate action to contain the outbreak. Containment Measures In response to the outbreak, the farm was swiftly closed, and an epidemiological investigation was launched to trace the source of the infection. Strict measures have been implemented to prevent the further spread of the...