SPPK: Potential Spread of Disease Could Threaten Country's Food Security

Bratislava, March 21 (TASR) - The Slovak Agriculture and Food Chamber (SPPK) heard with extreme concern the news that foot-and-mouth disease has been confirmed in Slovakia, as if this dangerous disease spreads to other farms, it will mean a direct threat to the country's food security, said SPPK spokesperson Jana Holeciova on Friday. Therefore, the chamber has called for immediate cooperation from all relevant state bodies and the public, which must result in 100-percent protection of farm-based animal husbandry in Slovakia. SPPK noted that the last time that Slovakia had to tackle dangerous foot-and-mouth disease was 50 years ago, in the 1970s. The confirmation of the infection in farms in the district of Dunajska Streda is a shock for all livestock breeders in Slovakia, therefore. "On behalf of the chamber's leadership and all livestock breeders in Slovakia, I'm expressing my deepest regret at the spread of the disease to Slovak farms. I personally see this as a very painful experience for everyone who has found themselves in this situation. The culling of animals is not just a logistical, but also an economic and emotional shock for breeders and their staff," said SPPK chairman Andrej Gajdos. "Slovakia has found itself in an extremely unpleasant situation, which can be felt not only by breeders, but also by consumers. We are facing significant economic losses. Therefore, joint and timely action by ministries, veterinarians and breeders is crucial at this time. The hermetic closure of farms, maximum disinfection, veterinary checks and restrictions on movement on the public near farms, as well as in forests and fields in line with vets' instructions are the most important and primary things we can do in this situation at the moment. The country's food security is at stake," stated Gajdos. ko/df