FirstFarms A/S: Confirmed case of Foot and Mouth Disease on farm in Slovakia

Core Viewpoint - An outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) has been confirmed on FirstFarms' farm in Slovakia, prompting the activation of an outbreak contingency plan by Slovak authorities to contain the infection [1][2]. Group 1: Outbreak Details - The outbreak was confirmed on March 30, 2025, affecting a livestock population of 3,487 animals on FirstFarms' farm in Plavecký Stvrtok, Slovakia [1]. - This is the first outbreak in FirstFarms' history but the fifth reported in Slovakia this year, with the first outbreak occurring on March 22, 2025 [2]. - All herds across FirstFarms' eight cattle and pig farms in Slovakia are being continuously tested for FMD, and currently, there is no suspicion of further infection [3]. Group 2: Response and Measures - FirstFarms is collaborating with authorities to prevent the spread of the disease, and vaccination of the animals is underway [2]. - The company has implemented all safety regulations and is on high alert across all its farms in Slovakia [2]. - The outbreak has led to the closure and isolation of the affected farm, along with the establishment of restriction zones to limit infection spread [1]. Group 3: Financial Implications - It is too early to assess the financial consequences of the outbreak for FirstFarms, although the company is fully insured for livestock across all farms [3]. - Operating losses are not covered by insurance, but FirstFarms anticipates receiving funds from national support schemes with EU backing [3]. Group 4: Disease Information - Foot and Mouth Disease is a serious infectious disease affecting cloven-hooved animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, and it cannot be cured [4]. - The disease is not transmissible to humans, but humans can carry the infection to animals through direct or indirect contact [4].