Foot-and-mouth case in German farm sees Channel Islands block meat and dairy imports from Germany

Foot-and-mouth disease is not a risk to humans but can have serious consequences for livestock. Credit: PA

Jersey and Guernsey have suspended the importation of some live animals and their by-products from Germany after an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease on a farm near Berlin.

The changes affect livestock including cattle, sheep, goats and pigs, and related fresh meat and dairy products following a similar ban in the UK.

There are no known cases of the disease in the Channel Islands and no risk to humans.

The special measures aim to protect local livestock as foot-and-mouth is a severe contagious viral condition for cloven-hoof animals.

The rules also state that individuals can only bring in certain products of hoofed animals from the EU, EFTA states, the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Switzerland.

Officials will continue to monitor the situation in Germany to decide whether further restrictions are necessary.

More information about the new restrictions can be found on the gov.je website for Jersey and the gov.gg page for Guernsey.

David Chamberlain, Guernsey States Veterinary Officer, explains: "We urge islanders not to bring prohibited animal products to the Bailiwick from the EU to avoid introducing this virus to our local herds, which could have a devastating impact on animal health and welfare."

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...