Maul and claw disease returns to Germany- alarm in Brandenburg!

In Germany, a break in the mouth and claw disease (MKS) was found, the last epidemic of this kind dates back to 1988. Three water buffalos have died in an affected company in the Brandenburg district of Märkisch-Oderland. The responsible official veterinarian, Ralph Bötticher, reports that the farmer did not move any feed from external sources before this incident, but harbed hay himself. There are assumptions that the MKS virus could have been introduced into the company by holidaymakers and their food they brought with them, which indicates the high risk of infection of these animal disease.

The mouth and claw disease affects high-containing viral diseases in claws such as cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. Zoo and wild animals can also be affected. However, the disease is harmless to humans, they can only act as a carrier. Historically speaking, a epidemic in Great Britain led to massive follow -up outbreaks in Europe in 2001, in which millions of animals were killed. The recently identified outbreak already has an impact on international trade in pork: The South Korean Ministry of Agriculture has banned all imports of pork from Germany, and quarantine examinations for around 360 tons of German pork have been announced.

MKS virus infection confirmed

The Friedrich Loeffler Institute (Fli) confirmed the infection with the MKS virus at the water buffalo in Märkisch-Oderland. MKS is a significant danger to animal health and agriculture. In response to the outbreak, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture has called a crisis staff to monitor the situation. Minister Cem Özdemir is planning a meeting with representatives of the affected industries to discuss the next steps.

The MKS virus can be transmitted via direct contact between animals, such as saliva or feces, as well as indirect paths such as illegal animal products and feed. It can also survive in the environment for several weeks. The serotype O of the virus was detected in the infected water buffalo. In addition to Europe, the virus is in many regions, including Turkey and parts of Africa and Asia, endemic.

Combating the plague requires comprehensive measures, including the killing and harmless disposal of infected animals as well as the establishment of quarantine areas and vaccination programs. These activities are associated with high costs for farmers and can lead to existential threats and financial losses through export stops. In the coming Green Week in Berlin, no cloaks of pairs will be represented to minimize the risk of further spreading the disease.