Slovakia has allocated 10 million EUR to combat the spread of foot-and-mouth disease, focusing on procurement of necessary goods and services. The government has also mobilized professional soldiers to support police in securing the borders and other critical sites. As of now, five confirmed outbreaks of the disease have been reported in southern and western Slovakia. Authorities are continuing to implement strict measures, including border controls and the enforcement of movement restrictions to contain the virus.
The government is working closely with neighbouring countries, including the Czech Republic, which has introduced tighter controls at the border. Slovakia's Ministry of Agriculture is also coordinating with agricultural groups to prevent further spread, with hopes to minimize economic damage. Early estimates indicate that the financial impact of the disease could reach up to 70 million EUR. Plans are in place for potential compensation for affected farmers, with further discussions set to take place with the European Commission.
Source: TASR, STVR