With outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) reported in Hungary and Slovakia, Estonia and the Czech Republic have introduced strict measures to prevent the spread of the disease, which primarily affects cattle and other livestock.
As concerns over the potential spread of FMD grow, farms across Europe are tightening biosecurity protocols to protect both livestock and the broader agricultural industry.
In Estonia, several large farms, including Andri-Peedo goat farm in Misso, Võru County, have taken proactive steps to safeguard against the disease. Located on the Estonian-Latvian border, Andri-Peedo has posted clear signs barring any visits to the premises. Similarly, Nopri farm has decided to close its doors to visitors and refrain from participating in this year’s Open Farms Day, a popular event that attracts crowds interested in learning about local farming practices.
“The appeal of agri-tourism – showing consumers the journey of their food from field to plate – is a small thing compared to the risk and fear a potential pandemic brings. Since we’ve lived through Covid globally, and (know) how fast and uncontrollably things can happen, even ordinary people can understand and perceive the risk,” explained Tiit Niilo, a farm owner in Estonia.
While farms across the region have implemented enhanced biosecurity measures—focusing on food safety, livestock movement, and employee hygiene—the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture has confirmed that the Open Farms Day will proceed as planned. However, it remains uncertain whether livestock such as cows, goats, and sheep will be part of the event, depending on ongoing biosecurity assessments.
In the Czech Republic, the government has enforced strict border controls with Slovakia, where six outbreaks of FMD have been reported. Trucks carrying animals, animal products, or feed can only cross at three designated border points, leading to long queues and delays. The Brodské-Břeclav crossing, one of the busiest, has experienced traffic jams stretching 17 kilometers, with trucks delayed for up to 40 minutes.
These measures, although necessary, have caused disruptions, especially for transporters working to prevent the disease from entering the Czech Republic. While no FMD cases have been confirmed within the country, the threat from Slovakia, which traced its outbreaks to Hungary, remains significant. Increased checks are expected to continue throughout the week, causing some inconvenience but ensuring the risk of further disease spread is minimized.
As the FMD threat intensifies, farmers, government authorities, and transporters are all collaborating to mitigate its spread.
