Brandenburg's epidemic exercise: This is how animal husbandry protects itself!

Brandenburg's epidemic exercise: This is how animal husbandry protects itself!

In Brandenburg, an intensive three-day state-seater exercise for the mouth and claw disease (MKS) was recently held. This exercise, which was carried out in Seddin from June 30th to July 2, 2025, aims to check the processes of epidemic control and the plans for measures in the practical test. Agriculture Minister Hanka Mittelstädt emphasized the urgency of such exercises: "You offer the opportunity to test our preparations for an emergency and, if necessary, optimize," says the Minister.

The background of this exercise is a serious one: On January 10, 2025, an MKS outbreak at Wasserbüffeln in the Märkisch-Oderland district was found. This was the first case in Germany since 1988, and the authorities reacted immediately by setting up blocking zones and examining contact companies. Fortunately, extensive samples showed no further cases and Germany on April 14, 2025, the status "MKS-Free without vaccination" was granted again, which is of great importance for international trade, as bmel.de.

preparations and implementation

The exercise that has been planned since September 2024 meant that official veterinarians in Brandenburg checked and updated their plans for measures. Around 100 participants from various institutions took part in the exercise, including the state laboratory, the animal disease control service and the state crisis center of the ministry. Sampling with various receptive animal species were practiced, as did the epidemic hygienic sample transport of prescribing materials.

The results of these comprehensive exercises are used to make the control concepts in the country's control handbook even more precisely. Agriculture Minister Mittelstädt emphasizes that such exercises are essential in view of the current epidemic hygienic environment, especially after the MKS outbreak at the beginning of this year.

The dangers of MKS

MKS is a highly contagious viral disease of claws that can also affect other animal species under certain circumstances. However, people are spared the disease and problems with food, such as pasteurized dairy products, are not to be expected. Nevertheless, the disease remains a serious threat to animal health and international trade. Their potential influence should not be underestimated, which is why the federal states in Germany are increasingly responsible for combating such epidemics, supported by the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut.

The situation in neighboring countries remains tense. In Hungary and Slovakia, several MKS outbreaks were reported that affect numerous animals. So far there has been no evidence of a connection between the outbreaks in Brandenburg and Hungary, but monitoring in the affected regions has been increased. Animal owners and doctors are called to pay attention to symptoms such as fever, saliva and lameness, since an early reaction is decisive.

The close cooperation between the authorities and the farmers can react quickly to these developments. The commitment in prevention and regular exercises turn out to be a powerful recipe for future animal disease -related challenges.