National Veterinary Service (NVS) has banned the movement of animals and food of animal origin in Burgas, Varna, Shumen, Yambol and Sliven. Measures have been taken to prevent the spread of the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) detected in a wild boar shot in the district of Burgas, near the village of Kosti. The ban is in accordance with a decision of the European Commission and will be in force until 28 February. Haskovo region has been excluded from the scope of quarantine but the NVS has taken preventive measures there by restoring the disinfection of passing vehicles on Kapitan Andreevo Border checkpoint. Disinfection will be made also on the Lesovo and Malko Tarnovo checkpoints as well as in the area around the outbreak.
Movement of animals for immediate slaughter only is allowed in Varna, Shumen, Yambol and Sliven, but under very stringent measures. Transport to the slaughterhouses will be carried out in sealed vehicles. The sealing will be performed by an official veterinarian. Immediately prior to slaughter clinical examination to prove the absence of signs of disease will be performed. Special marking which does not allow the harvested production to go beyond the indicated areas has been introduced.
Currently, there is no information for signs of disease among domestic animals. Samples to be tested in the reference laboratory at the National Veterinary Service in Sofia have already taken in the municipality of Tsarevo. Seven teams of four highly qualified veterinarians work on spot. Today nearly 1000 samples will be taken and the results are expected to be ready early next week.
Standing Committee on Food Chain and Animal Health of the European Commission will be convened on 11 and 12 January 2011 in Brussels. Measures undertaken by the NVS will be discussed and adjusted according to the situation. Bulgaria will be visited by the EU mission, which will examine on spot the reaction of veterinary authorities.