An outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, a dangerous viral disease that affects ungulates and can be transmitted to humans, has been recorded in Hungary, near the border with Ukraine. In this regard, Ukraine has introduced enhanced veterinary control to prevent the spread of the virus.
What is foot-and-mouth disease and why is it dangerous?
Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted by airborne droplets and through contaminated objects. The main carriers are:
Cattle
Pigs Sheep
Goats
Wild
ungulates
Although the virus mostly affects animals, humans can also become infected through contact with infected animals or consumption of infected meat and dairy products.
Symptoms of foot-and-mouth disease in humans
Drooling
Oral ulcers and erosions
Fever
Loss of appetite
How is Ukraine reacting?
Due to the risk of the spread of infection, the State Service for Food and Consumer Protection of Ukraine has introduced a number of restrictive measures in the border regions - Zakarpattia, Volyn, Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Chernivtsi regions.
Grazing of livestock is prohibited in a 10-kilometer zone along the border
Disinfection of transport at checkpoints
Enhanced veterinary control over animals and transportation of products
Ban on the import of meat and milk from Hungary
How to protect yourself?
Avoid contact with potentially infected animals
Buy meat and dairy products only from trusted sources
Follow sanitary standards when caring for animals
The Ukrainian authorities continue to monitor the situation, and doctors urge citizens to be cautious and adhere to preventive measures.
