To reduce the risk of FMD entering the country, Croatia has implemented temporary traffic arrangements. Since 15 April, the movement of susceptible animals originating from Hungary and Slovakia into Croatia remains prohibited. However, susceptible animals from other EU countries transiting through Hungary or Slovakia, and vehicles transporting raw milk from either country, are allowed to enter Croatia only through two designated border crossings: Duboševica–Udvar and Goričan–Letenye.
These transports must undergo checks and disinfection at these border points. Empty vehicles intended for the transport of live animals or milk must be disinfected prior to entering Croatia, and drivers must present a disinfection certificate upon request.
Products other than live animals and raw milk are not included in Croatia’s traffic arrangements.
Austria eases measures slightly
Austria’s earlier blanket ban on importing certain animal products from Hungary and Slovakia has, since 14 April, been limited to restricted zones within those countries (the so-called blue areas – editor’s note), according to the Lower Austrian Chamber of Commerce.
A regulation in force since 16 April requires that animals susceptible to FMD be tested for antigens and antibodies before import from Hungary or Slovakia into Austria. Only animals that have twice tested negative may be transported.
The Chamber notes that based on official reports from Hungary and Slovakia, and in consultation with the European Commission, a new epidemiological assessment has been carried out. Veterinary authorities in both countries have taken strong steps to control outbreaks, with the last confirmed case reported on 4 April.
Thanks to these efforts, EU-level regionalisation has been implemented, meaning restrictions now apply only to affected areas rather than whole Member States. Trade in live animals, beef and milk is still banned from those specific regions.
Austria continues to uphold certain precautionary measures, including ongoing border checks, closure of minor crossings, and biosecurity rules for farms.
