Government strengthens measures against foot and mouth disease  

One case confirmed in Germany

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture has strengthened measures to prevent Foot and Mouth Disease from reaching the Island. 

It comes as Germany reported one confirmed case there last week. 

The department has updated legislation, which aligns with the UK, banning the commercial imports of cattle, sheep, pigs, deer, buffalo and their products. 

Although no cases have been reported in the British Isles this year, previous outbreaks of the disease in 2001 and 2007, led to millions of livestock animals being slaughtered and cost the public and private sectors billions of pounds.

Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Amy Beckett said: "These robust measures are essential to protect the Island’s important agricultural sector. 

Vigilance and adherence to biosecurity are vital to preventing the spread of this devastating disease.

"While FMD poses no risk to human health, it is highly contagious in cloven-hoofed animals, such as pigs, sheep, and cattle, and can lead to significant economic losses."