Maul and claw disease: Brandenburg's animals in great danger!

Maul and claw disease: Brandenburg's animals in great danger!

On January 10, 2025, a significant outbreak of the mouth and claw disease (MKS) in water buffalos in the Märkisch-Oderland district, Brandenburg. This means that Germany had to lose its status as a MKS-free country, which has far-reaching consequences for international trade in living animals and animal products. As Darmstadt News , no more veterinary certificates can be issued for MKS- Freie. Cattle, pigs, sheep, goats and wild animals such as deer, deer and zoo animals are particularly affected.

The region around the outbreak of the outbreak has been subjected to a quarantine. The blocking zones have been set up, which include a protective zone of at least three kilometers and a monitoring zone of ten kilometers around the infected companies. The transport of animals and animal products is strictly prohibited within these zones. These measures were taken to prevent the virus from spreading rapidly. A federal-state Task Force for animal disease control came together on the day of the outbreak for initial consultations. The central crisis team of animal diseases was also called to discuss the further procedure.

recommendations and precautionary measures for animal owners

Tier owners in the Darmstadt-Dieburg district are called to check their biosecap measures and to question them critically. Events with claw animals should be avoided and participation should be canceled. The Veterinary Office Darmstadt-Dieburg appeals to the pet owners to be vigilant and consult veterinary help should symptoms such as high fever and blister-like skin changes to lips or claws. These symptoms can quickly lead to a high mortality rate in affected stocks, even if MKS usually does not fatal for the animals.

The quick transferability of the disease is particularly alarming. Air transmission and various vectors can lead to the spread of the virus. The virus is not only detectable for claw animals, but also for game and zoo animals, which further complicates that fight against. In view of the situation, the zoo and zoo in Berlin closed its doors to prevent distribution. The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture explains that the outbreak of MKS, which has not occurred in Germany since 1988, could have serious economic consequences.

Current situation and outlook

The EP state in many federal states is tense, and recommendations have already been made to suspend the transport of affected animals by January 18, 2025 to Belgium and to the Netherlands. Within the European Union, the trade in animals and animal products remains permitted under certain conditions, but with increased precautions. The situation requires careful attention and close cooperation with the veterinary authorities to prevent the virus from spreading.

pet owners who have questions or suspect MKS can contact the Veterinary Office Darmstadt-Dieburg on 06151 881-1820 or by email to veterinaeramt@ladadi.de to receive more information. MKS is not only a health threat to animals, but could also have a negative impact on animal husbandry and trade in general.