How to prevent bringing Foot-and-Mouth Disease on farm
Foot-and-mouth Disease (FMD) is a highly contagious disease which affects cloven hoofed animals (e.g., cattle, buffalo, pigs, sheep, deer, camelids, and goats). It spreads through close contact between animals and can be carried on animal products, equipment, people’s clothing or by the wind.
In May 2022, an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) was reported in cattle in Indonesia and an outbreak in livestock in Bali was reported in July.
The emergence and rapid spread of FMD in Indonesia has changed its risk profile in Australia and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has heightened border activities accordingly.
There are some simple steps all farmers and farm workers can undertake to help reduce the risk of Foot-and-mouth Disease and Lumpy Skin Disease outbreaks on their farms.
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Be aware of the signs of each disease (see the links above) and keep a close eye on your herd for any signs of an outbreak. Immediately report anything unusual to the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888
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Ensure your farm has an up-to-date biosecurity plan and everybody on the farm team understands and complies with the plan.
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Limit all unnecessary stock movements on or off your farm, as the most likely source of infection on-farm is through infected stock.
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Adhere to all traceability obligations, including meeting your requirements under the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) and completing National Vendor Declarations so they are clear, complete and correct.
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Ensure that anyone who has travelled outside Australia (especially Bali and Indonesia and excluding (* FMD-free countries* ) does not come on-farm for at least 7 days . Undertake risk assessments for all visitors or staff that come onto farm.
Report a concern to the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline by phoning 1800 675 888.
For more information visit the Emergency Animal Disease Preparedness page on the Dairy Australia website.
