Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is one of the most contagious viral diseases of ungulates such as cattle, pigs, sheep and goats. Although it is not dangerous to humans, an outbreak of the disease can have devastating consequences for livestock farming and the economy. After more than a decade of peace, FMD re-emerged in the European Union in early 2025, causing concern among farmers and authorities.

What is foot-and-mouth disease?

SIP is an acute viral disease that causes fever, mouth and hoof ulcers, reduced milk production and general weakness in animals. The disease spreads rapidly through direct contact between animals, infected objects, clothing or vehicles. There is no treatment, so prevention is key. Vaccination against SIP is banned in the EU, and infected animals are killed to prevent the spread of the disease.

Recent outbreaks in the EU

Germany (January 2025)
The first outbreak of SIP since 2011 was confirmed in January 2025 in free-range water buffaloes around Berlin. After the death of three animals, the rest were culled, and Germany introduced strict measures, including a ban on the movement of ungulates in the federal states of Brandenburg and Berlin.

Hungary (March 2025)
In March 2025, Hungary confirmed its first outbreak of swine fever in over 50 years. The disease was detected on a cattle farm with 1,400 animals near the Slovak border. Authorities ordered the slaughter of the livestock, the closure of the farm, and a ban on the movement of susceptible animals and their products.

Slovakia (March 2025)
Shortly afterwards, Slovakia reported an outbreak of IBD in three farms near the border with Hungary. The EU temporarily banned imports of susceptible animal species from the affected areas.

Situation in Slovenia
In Slovenia, SIP has not been confirmed since 1968. Following outbreaks in neighboring countries, the Food Safety, Veterinary and Plant Protection Administration (UVHVVR) carried out surveillance on all farms that received cattle from Hungary. No clinical signs of the disease were detected, but the movement of these animals was prohibited until the incubation period had expired.

Preventive measures

Effective protection against the spread of foot-and-mouth disease is based on consistent biosecurity. The UVHVVR recommends the following preventive measures:

• Using clean clothes and footwear when entering the stables.
• Quarantine for new or returned animalsuntil the presence of disease is excluded.
• Regular cleaning and disinfection of equipment and means of transport.
• Restricting access to external parties to animals and stables.
• Consistent disinfection of surfaces and the environment with proven products such as:
• Stalosan F – a powder disinfectant for disinfecting floors in stables, which reduces pathogenic microbes, moisture and odors.
• If infection is suspected, breeders should immediately notify the veterinarian and avoid any movement of animals.

Recent outbreaks of SIP in the EU highlight the importance of constant vigilance and preparedness. Although Slovenia remains without confirmed cases for now, consistent prevention and rapid action in case of any suspicions are crucial due to its geographical proximity to affected areas.