July 1, 2005

USDA: Russia's FMD measures to end Jul 11
 

On June 6, Russia notified the World Organization for Animal Health that foot and mouth disease (FMD) was identified in the Far East region of Amur. 

Though periodic FMD outbreaks are not uncommon in that area of Russia, it is the first time that the Asia Type-1 serotype has been found. The report notes that the infection occurred due to "suspected introduction by illegal movement of animal products from a neighboring country". 

Russia has a longstanding vaccination policy for animals in certain high-risk regions of the country. The Amur region and other regions that border China are among those that are routinely vaccinated.

However, animals have not been vaccinated against this particular serotype. The Amur region borders China and is sparsely populated. It is not a significant beef or milk producing region. Thus, it is unlikely that this outbreak, if contained, will have repercussions beyond the limited area where infected animals have been destroyed. 

Russia's Federation Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance Service (VPSS) has tightened control of the border with China, Mongolia and Kazakhstan due to this breakout of FMD, and has implemented stricter control measures on animal product imports to avoid illegal imports of meat from China into Russia via third countries. 

Though there has been a ban on meat imports from China since September 2004 due to FMD, the VPSS said it was possible that FMD was brought to Amur region from China by wild animals. After the situation has stabilized in the index town of Busse in Svobodnensky region, wild animals will be studied to see if they show FMD antibodies. 

To control the situation, cleaning and disinfecting of the livestock barns, territory, roads, tracks, footwear and clothing are taking place. Experts anticipate that the quarantine will be lifted on July 11 if no more cases are detected. The purchase of livestock vaccinated against serotype Asia 1 type will be permitted three months after the quarantine is removed.

FMD was previously detected in Russia in mid-April 2004, also in the Amur region. In order to stop the spread of the disease, 940 head of cattle were destroyed.

For the full USDA report, click here.