Hungary lifts restrictions after foot-and-mouth outbreak

Hungary, like many other countries, faces challenges related to animal husbandry and food safety. The recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, a viral disease that affects domestic and wild animals, has posed a serious challenge to the country's agricultural sector. However, thanks to prompt action and effective control measures, Hungary was able to successfully cope with the situation and lift the restrictions on livestock movement.

The Hungarian National Food Chain Safety Authority, together with local authorities, carried out comprehensive testing of contact farms that were exposed to the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. As of 7 March this year, negative results were obtained in all tested locations, which formed the basis for the decision to lift the quarantine measures. Based on the epidemiological analysis, National Chief Veterinarian Szabolcs Pásztor confirmed that the situation is under control. Despite

the positive results, restrictions remain in place in a limited area around the outbreak in Kisbayci. This is necessary to prevent a possible re-spread of the virus and to protect animal HEALTH. However, in other regions of the country, the internal movement of pigs, cattle , sheep and goats, as well as their transportation to slaughter, has been resumed. This decision allows farmers to return to normal activities and restore economic stability in the agricultural sector.

it is important to note that the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in Hungary has become a reminder of the need for continuous animal health monitoring and readiness to act quickly in the event of an epidemic. The country's veterinary services have already begun developing new protocols and recommendations for farmers to minimize risks in the future. This includes regular animal health checks, training for farmers and the introduction of modern technologies to track and monitor the condition of livestock farms.

In addition, Hungary actively cooperates with international organizations such as the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) to exchange experiences and best practices in disease control. This cooperation helps not only in the fight against foot-and-mouth disease, but also in preventing other possible outbreaks of infectious diseases.

Thus, the lifting of quarantine restrictions in Hungary is an important step towards the recovery of the livestock industry after the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. However, the situation requires constant attention and readiness to act on the part of government agencies, farmers and veterinary services to ensure the safety of both animals and consumers.