Hungary’s hidden success story: Beating one of the world’s most contagious livestock diseases
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Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals. Although FMD is a global threat to livestock, its significance varies from region to region. For Hungary, a country located in Central Europe, the perspective on FMD is quite different compared to many countries where the disease remains endemic. Hungary has maintained its FMD-free status without vaccination for many years, which is crucial for its agriculture, economy, and trade.
Importance of livestock in Hungary
Hungary has a rich tradition of animal husbandry. The livestock sector plays a significant role in the national economy, particularly in rural livelihoods and export trade. Cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and wild ungulates are important species raised in Hungary, all of which are susceptible to FMD.
Maintaining animal health is not only essential for the productivity of these industries but also for protecting the country’s international trade relationships. Many of Hungary’s agricultural products, including meat, dairy, and livestock, are exported to other European Union (EU) countries and beyond.
Current FMD status in Hungary
Hungary is officially recognised by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) as an FMD-free country without vaccination. This recognition allows Hungary to:
- Trade freely in livestock and animal products with other FMD-free countries.
- Export high-quality meat and dairy products to markets with strict animal health standards.
- Avoid the enormous economic costs associated with outbreaks and vaccinations.
Maintaining this FMD-free status requires strict adherence to biosecurity, surveillance, and early detection systems.
History of FMD in Hungary
Hungary, like many European countries, had experienced FMD outbreaks in the past, especially before the establishment of the European Union’s strong veterinary control system. However, through coordinated efforts by the Hungarian authorities, the EU, and international bodies, Hungary successfully eradicated FMD.
The last major outbreak in Europe occurred in the early 2000s, most notably in the UK (2001), which led to stricter EU-wide biosecurity policies. Since then, Hungary has remained free of the disease through strong veterinary infrastructure, strict import controls, and ongoing monitoring.
Prevention and control in Hungary
1. Surveillance and monitoring
Hungary operates an extensive surveillance program to detect any possible incursions of FMD. These include:
- Routine veterinary inspections of farms.
- Monitoring of wildlife populations that might act as reservoirs.
- Serological testing of livestock in high-risk border areas.
2. Strict border control
As Hungary borders several non-EU countries, strict controls are in place to monitor the movement of animals and animal products across borders. This includes:
- Veterinary checks at border control points.
- Certification of animal health status for imported goods.
- Prohibition of imports from FMD-affected regions unless under strict conditions.
3. EU and WOAH standards
Hungary follows EU legislation and WOAH guidelines for FMD control. These include:
- Compulsory notification of suspected cases.
- Rapid laboratory diagnostics.
- Emergency preparedness plans.
4. Biosecurity measures
Farm-level biosecurity is actively promoted by Hungarian veterinary authorities, including:
- Controlled farm access.
- Disinfection protocols.
- Restrictions on visitor movement in livestock areas.
5. Emergency response plan
Hungary maintains a national FMD contingency plan, which includes: