Austrian authorities are taking drastic measures to combat the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) as outbreaks surge in neighboring Hungary and Slovakia. Starting Saturday, April 5, 2025, a total of 24 border crossings will be closed in an effort to prevent the highly contagious virus from entering Austrian territory. This closure, confirmed by the Ministry of the Interior, is set to remain in effect until May 20, 2025.
The decision comes as thousands of animals, particularly cattle, are being culled in both Hungary and Slovakia due to the escalating outbreak. Virologists, including Norbert Nowotny from the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, have emphasized the extreme contagiousness of the virus, stating, "The virus is extremely contagious. Quick action is crucial."
Austria's government has already implemented an import ban on animals and animal products from the affected regions to mitigate the risk further. The surveillance zones monitoring the disease have expanded into Austrian territory, impacting large areas of Burgenland and eastern Lower Austria. This proactive approach aims to avert a repeat of the devastating FMD outbreak nearly 50 years ago, which resulted in the emergency slaughter of around 80,000 animals.
As the situation develops, the Austrian state police are tasked with securing the closed crossings. The closures are seen as a more efficient measure than traditional border controls, which can be personnel-intensive. According to Austrian media, the closures will be enforced with varying degrees of intensity across different locations.
Foot-and-mouth disease, a viral infection that affects livestock and wild animals with cloven hooves, presents symptoms like fever, mouth ulcers, and a significant drop in milk production. While humans are generally not at risk of contracting the virus, it poses a severe threat to agricultural economies, particularly in meat and dairy exports.
In light of the urgency, Austrian officials have coordinated these measures with health authorities in Lower Austria and Burgenland, as well as the Federal Ministry for Agriculture and Forestry. The import ban includes live animals, fresh meat, raw milk, and other animal products from the affected areas.
The closures will affect several key border crossings between Austria and Slovakia, including Angern-March to Zahorska Ves and Schloss Hof to Devinska Nová Ves. Additionally, crossings with Hungary such as Andau to Jánossomorja and Deutsch Jahrndorf to Rajka will also be shut down.
Authorities are urging farmers and livestock owners to remain vigilant and report any unusual symptoms in their animals. The rapid spread of FMD in neighboring countries serves as a stark reminder of the potential economic fallout if the virus were to breach Austrian borders.
As the closure date approaches, residents and travelers are advised to stay informed about the situation and plan their journeys accordingly. The government is expected to provide updates as the situation evolves, particularly regarding the status of the border crossings and any further measures that may be necessary to protect Austria's livestock.
The last significant outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Austria occurred in the 1970s, leading to widespread panic and drastic measures. Today, the government is determined to prevent a similar scenario from unfolding, leveraging lessons learned from past experiences.
In conclusion, Austria's decision to close border crossings reflects a commitment to safeguarding its agricultural sector and ensuring that the devastating impacts of foot-and-mouth disease are kept at bay. As the country navigates this public health challenge, cooperation among various governmental and agricultural entities will be crucial in maintaining the safety and health of Austria's livestock.
