Uzbekistan Declares Livestock Hygiene Month

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan has declared a month of “Sanitary and Epidemiological Hygiene in Livestock Farming” from 18 April to 18 May due to the risk of the spread of foot-and-mouth disease among agricultural animals, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Council of Farmers reported.

The decision comes amid a worsening epizootic situation in several countries. Earlier reports indicated outbreaks in two provinces of China, as well as emergency livestock vaccination campaigns in Kazakhstan, particularly in border areas.

At the end of 2025, mass livestock culling was recorded in Russia, officially attributed to pasteurellosis and rabies; however, some experts suggested it could have been linked to foot-and-mouth disease. This information cannot be independently verified.

There have been no official reports confirming cases of foot-and-mouth disease in Uzbekistan. At the same time, videos showing symptoms in cattle have been circulating on social media. Some farmers report animals refusing feed and dying, but these claims remain unconfirmed.

According to the World Organisation for Animal Health, new strains of the SAT serotype of the foot-and-mouth disease virus were identified in 48 countries in 2025–2026. This strain is traditionally found in Africa but can spread to other regions.

It is noted that existing vaccines do not provide full protection against this strain.

The Ministry of Agriculture emphasized that strict compliance with veterinary and sanitary requirements remains the key factor in preventing the spread of the disease.

Farmers are advised to install disinfection barriers, restrict access for unauthorized persons and vehicles, ensure proper animal housing conditions, provide quality feed and clean water, and maintain overall farm hygiene.

In case of suspected infection, farmers should immediately isolate affected animals and avoid administering medication before a veterinarian arrives. Key symptoms of foot-and-mouth disease include high fever and lesions in the mouth, on the hooves, and on the udder.

Preventive vaccination is considered especially important. Cattle should be vaccinated twice a year—in spring and autumn—while sheep should be vaccinated once a year. If necessary, vaccination is recommended for all animals older than 2.5–3 months.

Immunity develops within 15–21 days after vaccination.

In case of suspected infection, farmers are urged to contact veterinary services and соблюдать biosecurity measures, including disinfection and restrictions on the movement of livestock products.