UK Government Cracks Down to Shield Livestock from Foot and Mouth Outbreak
The UK has slammed the brakes on imports from Hungary and Slovakia after foot and mouth disease surfaced on a Hungarian farm near the Slovak border on 5 March 2025. The government’s tough new restrictions aim to stop this highly contagious animal virus from wrecking Britain’s livestock and farming industry.
Strict Import Ban Comes Into Force
From 8 March 2025, UK customs will reject:
- Live ruminants and pigs – including cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and deer.
- Untreated animal products such as fresh meat and unpasteurised dairy.
- Hay and straw that might carry the virus.
The ban targets Hungary and Slovakia due to their close trade and geographical links. These follow similar restrictions already in place for Germany since January after its Brandenburg outbreak.
Hungary Outbreak Sparks Alarms
Farmers near the Slovak border spotted telltale signs of foot and mouth disease in their cattle: excessive drooling, lameness, and blisters around the mouth and hooves. Lab tests confirmed the virus, forcing authorities to cull the herd and set up a 10km exclusion zone.
Although Slovakia hasn’t reported cases yet, its trade ties with Hungary put it under the UK’s precautionary radar.
UK Boosts Border Controls and Biosecurity
- All livestock goods in transit must be pre-notified and inspected on arrival.
- Non-compliant shipments will be turned away at the border.
- Travellers from affected areas are banned from bringing in any meat, dairy, or animal products.
Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Ruth Harper said:
“We’re working with European partners to monitor this outbreak. Foot and mouth disease spreads fast, so prevention is our top priority. There’s no threat to the UK right now, but vigilance is key.”
Remember 2001: The Cost of Foot and Mouth
While harmless to humans, foot and mouth disease can devastate farming economies. Britain’s 2001 crisis saw over six million animals slaughtered, huge financial losses, and crippling trade bans.
Farmers Urged to Up Their Game
Livestock owners must boost biosecurity by:
- Disinfecting footwear and equipment before entering farms.
- Limiting visitors near animals.
- Watching for symptoms like fever, mouth and hoof sores, lameness, and drops in milk production.
£200 Million Pledged for Disease Defence
The government is pouring £200 million into upgrading the Animal and Plant Health Agency’s Weybridge lab to bolster long-term disease monitoring and control.
Farming Minister Laura Bennett vowed:
“Our farmers are the backbone of rural communities. We will do everything possible to protect them from threats like foot and mouth disease.”
Know the Signs? Report It Now
If you suspect foot and mouth disease, act fast. Contact:
- England: 03000 200 301
- Wales: 0300 303 8268
- Scotland: Contact your local Field Services Office.
Stay Tuned for Updates
The UK remains free from foot and mouth disease, but these strong measures reflect the serious threat. Officials are closely watching the situation and will adjust rules as needed.
For the latest news, head to the UK government website or trusted agricultural news sources.
