Germany has officially been declared free of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), according to an announcement from the country’s agriculture ministry on April 15.
This declaration follows a temporary suspension of its FMD-free status earlier this year after an outbreak was suspected on a small cattle farm in Bavaria. The farm, located near the Austrian border, was placed under immediate quarantine, and authorities implemented strict biosecurity and monitoring protocols. Fortunately, no further spread of the disease was detected.
Germany’s reinstatement as FMD-free restores its standing under the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) guidelines—an essential milestone for maintaining the country’s livestock trade and export integrity.
While this case involved cattle, FMD poses a significant risk to swine producers as the virus affects all cloven-hoofed animals, including pigs. German authorities emphasized that the swift containment efforts were critical in avoiding broader livestock industry disruption.
This news comes as a relief to Europe’s pork sector, as a prolonged suspension could have impacted regional market confidence and export dynamics. It also underscores the importance of early detection, strict biosecurity measures, and coordinated responses in disease management.
Swine producers globally are reminded that vigilance against transboundary animal diseases like FMD is critical for maintaining herd health, protecting trade, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
