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Bratislava – Experts from the European Commission (EC) approved the correctness of the measures set by the Slovak Republic in dealing with the disease of foot-and-mouth disease. This was stated on Thursday after a meeting with EC experts by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Slovak Republic Richard Takáč (Smer-SD), reports TASR.
“I can start by saying that the experts have unequivocally confirmed that the steps taken by the central director (State Veterinary and Food Administration Martin Chudý, editor’s note) with his team are the right ones and often, in my opinion, go beyond what European legislation requires us to do. I must say that no one can question the steps that have been implemented, and this was also confirmed to us by the given experts,” said Takáč.
He reminded that the first case of foot-and-mouth disease appeared in Slovakia last Friday (March 21). Currently, four farms affected by this disease are confirmed. “We have no confirmed other outbreaks, which is very important information, nor do we have any reports of any suspicions,” the minister stressed.
He reiterated that small breeders around the outbreak areas, who had to cull their herds due to the disease, will be compensated in the coming days.
The central director of the State Veterinary and Food Administration, Martin Chudý, reminded that it is necessary to strictly adhere to the rules of biosecurity to protect herds. Regular clinical examinations and testing of animals are important, according to him. Together with the minister, they added that although the incubation period is stated to be seven to 14 days, the discovery of another case in Hungary after almost three weeks shows that the infection can appear even after a longer time. (March 27)
“I must say that no one can question the steps that have been implemented, and this was also confirmed to us by the given experts.” Richard Takáč.