Austria Deploys Troops to Combat Foot-and-Mouth Outbreak, Tightens Border Controls

March 28, 2025
Austria Deploys Troops to Combat Foot-and-Mouth Outbreak, Tightens Border Controls
  • As the disease spreads, a new case was reported in Hungary, just ten kilometers from the Burgenland border, prompting Austria to implement stricter measures.

  • In response to the growing outbreak, the Austrian Armed Forces Disaster Relief Unit (AFDRU) was deployed on March 26, 2025, sending approximately 50 soldiers to assist Slovak authorities in heavily affected areas.

  • AFDRU members are stationed in the severely impacted regions of Dunajsk Streda and Komrno, where they have established a decontamination site at the Rajka border crossing.

  • To mitigate risks, all agricultural fairs and exhibitions have been banned until further notice, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.

  • The economic implications of FMD are significant, with countries like South Korea and Canada imposing import bans on German meat products, affecting international trade.

  • Agriculture Minister Simone Schmiedtbauer stated that farmers must adhere to strict hygiene protocols, with ongoing monitoring and restrictions on agricultural activities.

  • The outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Central Europe began in early 2025, with the first case reported in Brandenburg, Germany, raising concerns about international trade restrictions.

  • Efforts at the Rajka border crossing focus on decontaminating vehicles to prevent the virus from entering Austria, with soldiers capable of cleaning up to 25 vehicles per hour.

  • As of March 28, 2025, over 700 vehicles have been decontaminated at the border, highlighting the urgency of the containment efforts.

  • Austria's Health Ministry has enacted a ban on importing live animals, fresh meat, raw milk, and hunting trophies from affected neighboring countries to curb the outbreak.

  • Health Secretary Ulrike Königsberger-Ludwig emphasized the importance of collaboration within the EU, noting that FMD does not respect national boundaries.

  • Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner emphasized the urgency of coordinated action against FMD, highlighting Austria's role as a reliable EU partner in this crisis.

Summary based on 3 sources


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