Austria taking preventive measures to counter risk of foot-and-mouth disease

ANI April 3, 2025 402 views

Austria is taking proactive steps to prevent the potential spread of foot-and-mouth disease from Slovakia by strategically closing small border crossings. State Secretary Ulrike Konigsberger-Ludwig confirmed the Ministry of Interior's plan to restrict crossings where health monitoring is difficult. The move comes in response to growing public concern about disease transmission risks to Austrian livestock. Despite the targeted closures, main border crossings will continue to operate normally, demonstrating a balanced approach to public health protection.

"We will close small border crossings where health controls are challenging" - Ulrike Konigsberger-Ludwig, State Secretary
Vienna, April 3: Austria intends to close small border crossings with Slovakia due to the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in its neighbouring country, in order to limit the spread of the disease and protect livestock in Austria.

Key Points

1

Austria implementing targeted border control strategy to prevent disease spread

2

Main border crossings will remain fully operational

3

Preventive measures focus on high-risk small crossing points

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No current evidence of disease transmission to Austria

Ulrike Konigsberger-Ludwig was appointed State Secretary in charge of health affairs.

He confirmed the completion of preparing a list of the small crossings that the Ministry of Interior will close between the two countries, explaining that the preventive measure targets closing border crossings where it is difficult to apply precautionary controls and necessary health procedures. She noted that the main border crossings with Slovakia will continue to operate normally.

Foot-and-mouth disease has recently spread in Slovakia, with no evidence yet of its transmission to Austria, where calls have increased demanding stricter measures. (ANI/WAM)

Reader Comments

M
Markus S.
Smart move by Austria! Better safe than sorry when it comes to protecting our livestock. Hope Slovakia can get this under control soon 🤞
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Leonie K.
I live near one of these small crossings - completely understand the decision but hope they'll provide clear signage about alternative routes. The last thing we need is confused drivers causing traffic jams!
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Thomas R.
While I support the measure, I wonder if this is enough. Foot-and-mouth disease can be devastating - shouldn't we consider more comprehensive checks at all border points?
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Sophie B.
As a farmer's daughter, I'm relieved to see proactive measures. Our cattle are our livelihood! 🐄 Hope they'll keep monitoring the situation closely.
J
Jakob P.
Interesting approach - targeting the small crossings where controls are difficult makes sense. Shows they've actually thought about the practicalities rather than just blanket restrictions.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Foot-and-mouth disease Austria border control Slovakia health risk Livestock protection Ulrike Konigsberger-Ludwig
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