Foot-and-mouth disease is not transmitted to humans, but surveillance has been reinforced in Portugal
An outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease was detected on a farm of 20 water buffaloes in Germany and, although Portugal does not have such farms, it has reinforced surveillance measures as it is one of the most contagious diseases, it was announced.
“[…] An outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease was reported in Germany, on a water buffalo farm with 20 animals bred extensively, located in Brandenburg, north of Berlin”, indicated the General Directorate of Food and Veterinary Medicine (DGAV).
Foot-and-mouth disease is not transmitted to humans.
German authorities activated a contingency plan and suspended the movement of ungulates (hoofed mammals) for 72 hours.
Portugal does not have water buffalo farms, but it has reinforced surveillance measures, given that foot-and-mouth disease is one of the most contagious diseases that also affects cattle, sheep, goats and pigs.
There is no treatment for this disease and vaccination is prohibited in the European Union, “except in emergency situations”.
DGAV called for compliance with biosafety measures, such as disinfection of facilities, vehicles and equipment, control of animal movement and monitoring of clinical signs.
Any suspicion of infection with this virus must be reported to DGAV.
The disease can cause a decrease in milk production, lack of appetite, miscarriages or sudden death.
Vesicles (a type of blister) may appear on the tongue, gums, cheeks, lips, teats and nostrils of animals and gray or yellow streaks on the heart.
