30

Austria has taken emergency steps to protect its farms from a serious animal disease spreading across nearby countries. Authorities closed 24 small border crossings with Hungary and Slovakia. The reason is simple and urgent: to stop foot-and-mouth disease from reaching Austrian soil.

This disease spreads fast among farm animals like cows, pigs, goats, and sheep. It doesn’t harm people, but it causes big problems for farms and food trade. When animals get sick, they suffer from fever and painful sores in their mouths and feet. This makes it hard for them to eat, walk, or even stand. In many cases, infected animals must be put down. That means huge losses for farmers and big disruptions in the meat and dairy markets.

Outbreaks in Hungary and Slovakia Raise Red Flags

The crisis began earlier this week. Slovakia confirmed cases of foot-and-mouth disease on three farms. Officials quickly declared a state of emergency. Just days later, Hungary reported its own outbreak—the first in the country in over 50 years. The news shocked the region. Hungary’s government acted fast, sending soldiers to help with emergency measures. Disinfection zones were set up near the Slovak and Austrian borders.

Both countries are now trying to stop the virus from spreading. But the danger remains, especially for countries that share long borders with them—like Austria.

Austria Acts Fast to Keep the Disease Out

Austria responded by closing 24 smaller road crossings. Only a few larger crossings remain open, and strict rules are in place at those points. Vehicles are now required to drive over special rugs soaked in disinfectant. These “epidemic rugs” are meant to kill any virus that might be on tires or shoes. Pedestrians crossing the border must step on disinfectant mats.

Police are also checking vehicles for illegal or unapproved meat products. This is because the virus can survive in meat and spread from place to place. Authorities are urging drivers not to bring any animal products across the border.

Tight Surveillance and Emergency Plans in Place

Veterinary teams in Austria are working hard. They are watching for signs of the disease in farms near the border. Farmers are being asked to report any unusual behavior in their animals right away. This includes symptoms like fever, trouble walking, or mouth sores.

The government has emergency plans ready in case the virus enters the country. These plans include isolating affected farms, killing infected animals, and controlling the movement of livestock. Though these measures are tough, they are needed to protect the country’s food supply and farming industry.

“We are doing everything we can to keep Austria free of this virus,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture. “The risk is serious, and we are not taking any chances.”

What Is Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

Foot-and-mouth disease is one of the most contagious animal illnesses in the world. It spreads through direct contact, through the air, or by touching contaminated surfaces. The virus can travel in clothing, shoes, or meat. That’s why border checks are so important.

Once the disease spreads, it is very hard to stop. In the early 2000s, the United Kingdom faced a major outbreak that led to the destruction of over six million animals. The economic damage was in the billions. Trade stopped. Rural tourism collapsed. Farmers lost their animals, their income, and sometimes even their mental health.

Austrian Farmers on Edge

Farmers in Austria are deeply worried. Many remember past outbreaks in Europe and fear what might happen if the virus enters the country. Austria has a strong farming sector. It is known for high-quality dairy and meat products. But all that could be at risk if foot-and-mouth disease spreads.

Several farm groups have welcomed the border closures and stricter controls. They are asking for even more support, including protective gear, guidance, and help with biosecurity. “We need to work together,” said a farmer in Burgenland near the Hungarian border. “If even one case is missed, the damage could be huge.”

Call for International Cooperation

This situation is a reminder of how diseases can cross borders quickly. Health experts are calling for better cooperation between European countries. They say that stopping outbreaks needs teamwork, not just closed borders. Shared data, fast reporting, and common safety rules can help all countries prepare and respond.

So far, the European Union has offered support to Slovakia and Hungary. Experts from the EU’s disease control agency are helping with testing and planning. But some critics say the EU must do more to help protect neighboring countries like Austria.

Situation Being Closely Watched

The Austrian government said its border police and health teams remain on high alert. More steps may be taken if the situation worsens. The public is being told to stay calm but alert. People who work with animals or travel often are being asked to avoid risky behavior, like bringing food across borders or visiting farms in affected areas.

For now, there are no reported cases inside Austria. But as long as the virus remains active nearby, the danger continues.