Foot-and-mouth disease latest

Updated 16 January 2025

Following a confirmed case of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Germany, we are closely monitoring the situation and assessing its potential impact on UK agriculture.

FMD was confirmed in a 14-head herd of water buffalo in the state of Brandenburg on 10 January.

The UK Government announced on Tuesday 14 January it was stepping up measures to prevent the spread of FMD, including a ban on the import of live cattle, pigs and sheep from Germany as well as restrictions on products of animal origin to protect farmers and their livelihoods.

The Government has also issued EU-wide restrictions on the import of certain products for personal use.

Mandy Nevel, AHDB Head of Animal Health and Welfare, said:

"Germany has lost its FMD-free status, meaning all meat, dairy and other products of animal origin from Germany are no longer permitted to be exported outside of the EU.

"Germany is the third largest exporter of pig meat to the UK with an 18% market share. It is also the second largest exporter of dairy products to the UK with a 12% market share.

"It means that ham, gammon and bacon as well as product like salami from Germany will not be allowed into the UK. As such we are expecting some disruption to supply. AHDB will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves."

Latest figures show that from January to October 2024 the UK imported the following from Germany (figures rounded up/down):

• Pig meat – 117,340 tonnes worth £448 million
• Beef – 6,796 tonnes worth £23.2 million
• Sheep meat – 85 tonnes worth £963,000
• Dairy – 130,000 tonnes worth £283 million

Foot-and-mouth disease is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect it you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence.

The UK Chief Veterinary Officer is urging livestock keepers to remain vigilant to the clinical signs of FMD following the confirmed case of the disease in Germany. There are no cases in the UK currently.

It is essential for livestock owners and producers to maintain sound biosecurity practices to prevent the introduction and spread of the virus:

• Control over access to livestock by people and equipment
• Control the introduction of new animals to existing stock
• Maintain sanitation of livestock pens, buildings, vehicles and equipment
• Monitor and report illness
• Appropriate disposal of manure and dead carcases

Source: World Organisation for Animal Health