Austria has shut down nearly two dozen border crossings with Hungary and Slovakia in a bid to contain the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, as authorities intensify checks and prepare for potential cases within the country.
Austria has closed around two dozen border crossings with Hungary and Slovakia in an effort to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease following outbreaks in both neighboring countries.
The move comes after Slovakia declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, reporting cases on three farms. Hungary confirmed its first outbreak of the disease in 50 years on Wednesday, prompting the deployment of soldiers and the initiation of disinfection protocols near its borders with Slovakia and Austria.
Although foot-and-mouth disease poses no risk to humans, it is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, swine, sheep, and goats. Infected animals typically develop fever and painful mouth blisters, and outbreaks often result in livestock culls and trade restrictions.
Austrian health authorities have stepped up preventive measures at the few remaining open border crossings. Vehicles and pedestrians are required to pass over disinfectant mats to stop the virus from spreading. Police are also inspecting vehicles for meat products, which could carry the virus.
Officials stated that border forces are on heightened alert and are concentrating resources at crossing points for the duration of the emergency. Contingency plans are also being prepared in the event of a confirmed outbreak within Austria’s own livestock population.
Read next
22:33
Iran
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has arrived in Egypt on a one-day visit and is scheduled to visit Lebanon on Tuesday on the second leg of his tour of the two Arab countries with which the Islamic Republic is re-adjusting its relations.
22:00
SOCAR
The State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) and Canada’s Gran Tierra Energy Inc. signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the sidelines of the 30th Anniversary International Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition held as part of Baku Energy Week.
21:30
Azerbaijan and Iran
Azerbaijan and Iran have reached a key agreement on the operation mode and water allocation of the Araz reservoir, following the 54th meeting of the Permanent Joint Commission on the shared use of the Araz River's water and energy resources, held in Baku.
21:00
the caspian bridge
Azerbaijan has emerged as a critical transportation hub in China's Belt and Road Initiative, transforming from a regional energy exporter into a vital link connecting Chinese goods with European markets.
20:45
Karol Nawrocki
The election of nationalist Karol Nawrocki as Poland’s new president marks a significant political shift that could complicate the country’s relations with both the European Union and Ukraine,
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment