Zoos closed, hunting ban introduced, border closed: foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in Hungary

Hungary is grappling with a recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), the first in over half a century. The resurgence of this highly contagious viral disease has prompted immediate restrictions and control measures across affected regions.

Outbreak details and response

The initial foot-and-mouth disease outbreak was detected three weeks ago in Kisbajcs. More recently, a new case has been confirmed in Levél, a village in Győr-Moson-Sopron county, leading to the establishment of a 3-kilometer protection zone and a 10-kilometer observation zone around the infected site.

According to Minister of Agriculture István Nagy, all infected animals at the Levél site will be culled to prevent further spread, Telex writes. Authorities are also urging residents with livestock to reduce their stock, requiring them to notify local officials for sampling before slaughter. All markets and exhibitions involving susceptible animals have been banned.

In the districts of Győr and Mosonmagyaróvár, a ban on the movement and grazing of susceptible animals is in effect until midnight on Saturday. A hunting ban has also been implemented, and zoos in the affected area will remain closed. Minister Nagy has assured that all necessary human and material resources are being allocated to eradicate the virus and ensure a secure food supply.