Following rigorous technical assessment, the UK has lifted the commercial import restrictions that were applied to Austria as a result of outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) near the Austria-Hungary border earlier this year.

This means that the export of affected commodities from Austria can take now place, provided that all other import conditions are met and attestations in the relevant export health certificate can be certified.

Personal import restrictions still apply for the entire EU area.

FMD poses no risk to human or food safety, but is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals. Livestock keepers should therefore be absolutely rigorous about their biosecurity.

Foot and mouth disease is a notifiable disease and must be reported. If you suspect foot and mouth disease in your animals, you must report it immediately by calling:  

• 03000 200 301 in England   
• 0300 303 8268 in Wales   
• your local  Field Services Office in Scotland