Foot and mouth surveillance zone lifted

- Published: 05 November, 2007

Defra has today lifted the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) surveillance zone.

Extensive surveillance has been completed in the FMD surveillance zone and no further cases of FMD have been discovered.

The current restricted zone, and movement restrictions that apply in this zone, remain in place.

Discussions are ongoing with the European Commission regarding further changes to allow the easing of export restrictions.

Deputy chief veterinary officer, Fred Landeg, said: "Animal Health have completed extensive surveillance work in the FMD surveillance zone and the negative results now allow us to lift the surveillance zone which will be welcome news to many farmers.

"However farmers must remain vigilant and continue to check their animals for signs of disease twice daily."