1. Recent Outbreaks in Europe

• Hungary & Slovakia: The first FMD cases in 50 years were confirmed in Hungary in early 2025, affecting dairy cattle near the Slovakian border. Slovakia later reported outbreaks in bordering regions, linked to a serotype O virus strain previously detected in Asia.
• Germany: An outbreak in Brandenburg affected water buffalo, traced to a serotype O strain similar to those found in recent outbreaks in neighboring regions. Germany culled exposed animals and established restricted zones.

2. Containment Measures and EU Response

• Culling & Restricted Zones: Affected countries implemented strict measures, including culling infected herds and enforcing 3 km protection zones with 10 km surveillance zones.
• Vaccination Policies: The EU maintains an antigen bank for rapid vaccine deployment, though emergency vaccination remains controversial due to trade restrictions on vaccinated livestock.
• Border Controls: Several countries intensified checks, requiring disinfection protocols and banning meat imports from affected regions.

3. Economic and Trade Disruptions

• Global Trade Bans: Multiple nations suspended imports of livestock and animal products from outbreak zones, disrupting supply chains.
• Agricultural Losses: FMD causes severe production declines—milk yields can drop by 80% in recovered cattle, and mortality rates reach 20% in young livestock.

4. Public Health and Carrier Risks

• No Human Threat: FMD rarely infects humans and poses no public health risk, though it can spread via contaminated clothing or equipment.
• Carrier Animals: Cattle, buffalo, and goats may harbor the virus for 1–2 years, complicating eradication efforts.

5. Global Preparedness and Recommendations

• Biosecurity Protocols: Farmers are advised to enhance farm hygiene, restrict visitor access, and report symptoms immediately.
• International Surveillance: Global animal health organizations continue monitoring outbreaks to prevent further spread.

Conclusion
The 2025 FMD outbreak highlights the ongoing vulnerability of livestock industries to viral threats. While containment efforts are underway, the economic and trade impacts emphasize the need for strong biosecurity measures and international cooperation.