FMD outbreak spurs controls at Hungary–Romania border despite Schengen access

Romania has introduced emergency health controls at the Hungary–Romania border in a bid to curb the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), following multiple outbreaks in neighbouring countries.

Controls at Hungary–Romania border

While EU countries face UK restrictions, Romania is grappling with the threat of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) spreading across its borders, as Turizmus Online reports. In response, the National Centre for Disease Control has implemented strict measures, particularly along the Hungary–Romania border, following an extraordinary meeting. Imports of live animals, feed, straw, compost, and manure from Hungary have been banned, alongside meat and dairy products from cloven-footed ungulates originating in affected regions.

With four FMD outbreaks reported in Hungary, six in Slovakia, and one in Germany, the removal of customs checks between Hungary and Romania, following Romania’s entry into the Schengen area, is believed to be accelerating the disease’s transmission. To counter this, veterinary checkpoints have been established on key routes from Hungary, and increased farm disinfection. Expect tighter vehicle controls, and mandatory disease testing for all incoming animals at the Hungary–Romania border.

Read also:

• Tightened controls at the Slovak-Hungarian border due to virus outbreak
• UK to tighten restrictions on travellers from Hungary due to contagious disease