Serotype O detected in Germany FMD outbreakSerotype O detected in Germany FMD outbreak

Exact origin and route of entry into livestock is still unknown.

Ann Hess, Content Producer

January 13, 2025

2 Min Read
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The National Reference Laboratory for Foot-and-Mouth Disease of the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut has pinpointed the serotype responsible for the recent foot and mouth disease outbreak in Germany. After being FMD-free for nearly 40 years, the country detected FMD virus serotype O in a herd of water buffalo in Märkisch-Oderland, Brandenburg last week.

According to the FLI, closely related FMD viruses ca be found the Middle East and Asia, however the exact origin and route of entry into livestock in Germany is still unknown. Authorities note suitable vaccines are available in the German FMD antigen bank, and once activated by the Länder, the FMD antigen bank can produce the necessary vaccines within a few days. 

"In the case of FMD, it is important that the vaccine is precisely matched, as vaccines against other serotypes do not protect animals. To date, seven serotypes are known: O, A, C, Asia 1, SAT1, SAT2 and SAT3, which are divided into numerous subtypes and strains," stated FLI in a recent release.

In addition to vaccination, authorities plan to test all cloven-hoofed animals near the affected farm to determine the actual spread of the outbreak. FLI said this will determine any further measures that may need to be taken, as well as whether and how to use a vaccine.

Related:Researchers discover molecule that could disable PRRSV

A severe, fast-spreading viral disease that primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cows, pigs, sheep, goats and deer, FMD is one of the most economically devastating and challenging animal diseases to control. Symptoms include fever, blisters on the feet and mouth, loss of appetite, drooling and lameness. Most herds affected are culled, as in the case of the 2001 UK FMD outbreak and the loss of more than 10 million animals.

FMD was eradicated from the United States in 1929.

The last time Germany reported an FMD outbreak was in 1988 in Lower Saxony. Europe hasn't had a positive case since Bulgaria in 2011.

About the Author

Ann Hess

Content Producer, National Hog Farmer

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