Due to an outbreak of a dangerous disease, meat imports from Germany to Britain are banned
In response to a confirmed case of foot-and-mouth disease in Germany, the United Kingdom has imposed a ban on importing livestock and meat products to protect farmers and prevent an epidemic.
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The UK has tightened measures to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease following the confirmation of a case in Germany. This information was published on the UK Government website.
From January 15, the import of cattle, pigs, and sheep from Germany is prohibited. This step is aimed at protecting local farmers and their businesses from this highly contagious viral infection.
Foot-and-mouth disease does not pose a threat to humans but can cause significant economic damage by reducing meat and milk production and imposing export restrictions. The disease affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cows, sheep, and pigs.
The UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss has called on animal owners to be extra vigilant, emphasizing the importance of strict biosecurity measures.
The main symptoms of the disease in livestock include ulcers and blisters on hooves, in the mouth, and on the tongue, fever, and lameness.
Agriculture Minister Daniel Zeichner stressed that the government is prepared to impose additional import restrictions from other countries if the disease spreads further.
Additionally, the government announced an investment of £200 million to modernize laboratories in Weybridge, which specialize in research on animal diseases.
If foot-and-mouth disease is suspected, it is imperative to immediately report it to the Animal and Plant Health Agency. Hotline numbers are 03000 200 301 for England and 0300 303 826 for Wales.
These measures are aimed at preventing a threat that could undermine the country’s food security and seriously impact agriculture.
Earlier, it was reported that a new, more contagious variant of the mpox virus was detected in Germany, previously found only outside Africa, indicating the ongoing spread of the disease.
It was also revealed that a US Congressional committee concluded its investigation, suggesting COVID-19 likely originated from a lab leak in Wuhan, sparking heated debates.