January 18, 2010

China reports FMD outbreak in Xinjiang

Foot-and-mouth disease has hit Korla city in north-western China, Xinjiang, affecting 28 cattle.

The outbreak was first reported on December 30, 2009, in Xiniga Township and confirmed by the National Foot-and-Mouth Disease Reference Laboratory on Tuesday (Jan 12).

A total of 37 cattle were culled, including the 28 affected and those in the same herding, according to a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture. The disease is under control now, the statement said.

Foot-and-mouth disease is highly contagious and can affect cloven-hoofed animals including cattle, sheep and goats.