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Veterinary Services Warn: Livestock Mobilization Increases Risk of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Spread

Published March 21, 2026, 08:47
Veterinary Services Warn: Livestock Mobilization Increases Risk of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Spread

The Veterinary Services warn that today's mobilization of livestock farmers, due to their gathering, sharply increases the risk of spreading the foot-and-mouth disease virus. They emphasize that veterinarians do not seek to punish anyone, but legislation provides for fines of up to €5000 and loss of compensation rights in case of non-compliance with procedures. They stress that veterinarians and livestock farmers must cooperate to address the situation, as they have a common goal: the health of animals and the safety of production. Checks are carried out to identify potential movements of animals related to confirmed cases, in order to protect herds and limit the spread of the disease. The Veterinary Services assure that laboratory tests distinguish antibodies from the vaccine from those originating from actual infection. In addition, they remind that they have informed livestock farmers since December 15th about prevention measures and that 24/7 telephone lines are operating for assistance and clarification. Finally, they emphasize that legislation gives veterinarians the right to enter premises with animals for checks, not to make things difficult for livestock farmers, but to protect the entire sector. Compliance with protocols is essential for the rapid management of the crisis and a return to normality.