UK Government Imposes Strict Import Restrictions on Greek Dairy and Meat After Foot and Mouth Disease Detected in Lesvos

A fresh warning has been issued to UK livestock owners after a case of Foot and Mouth disease (FMD) was confirmed on a cattle farm in Lesvos, Greece.

While the UK remains free from the virus, officials are stressing vigilance and strict biosecurity measures to keep the country’s livestock safe.

UK Implements Import Restrictions to Protect Livestock

The UK government has responded swiftly by introducing restrictions on certain Greek commercial imports.

Products such as milk, colostrum, feta, and yoghurt can only enter Great Britain if they have undergone approved heat treatment and are accompanied by the required health certificates.

These measures aim to reduce the risk of FMD entering the UK, safeguarding both agricultural production and biosecurity.

Personal imports of meat and dairy from the EU remain prohibited, consistent with restrictions implemented last year following an increase in cases across Europe.

Understanding Foot and Mouth Disease

FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cattle, sheep, pigs, and other cloven-hoofed animals including wild boar, deer, llamas, and alpacas.

It poses no risk to humans or food safety, but its economic impact can be devastating.

Infected animals suffer production losses, and affected countries often lose access to international markets for meat, milk, and livestock.

Clinical signs vary by species:

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• Cattle: Sores and blisters on feet, tongue, and mouth, fever, lameness, and reluctance to feed
• Sheep & Pigs: Lameness and occasional blistering

Livestock keepers are urged to remain alert for these symptoms and immediately report any suspicions to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

Expert Guidance from UK Authorities

Dr Christine Middlemiss, UK Chief Veterinary Officer, stated:

“A case of Foot and Mouth disease has been confirmed in Greece.

We are working closely with European counterparts to monitor the situation.

Robust plans are already in place to minimise the risk to Britain’s farming community and food security.

Livestock keepers must exercise the utmost vigilance, follow strict biosecurity, and report any signs of disease immediately.”

Since 12 April 2025, travellers are prohibited from bringing meat or dairy from EU countries into Great Britain for personal use.

This ban applies to cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, reflecting growing concern over outbreaks across mainland Europe.

Impact and Consequences

The discovery of FMD in Greece has prompted immediate economic and regulatory responses:

• Export and import restrictions affect dairy and meat trade
• Farmers may face increased monitoring and compliance requirements
• Potential for widespread production losses if the disease spreads

Although the UK has no cases, even a single outbreak could disrupt domestic livestock markets and trade relations with international partners.

What’s Next?

UK authorities continue to apply science-based, proportionate measures to balance trade and animal health. Key actions include:

• Maintaining strict import controls
• Educating livestock owners on biosecurity and disease recognition
• Monitoring European outbreaks closely for any escalation

Summary

Foot and Mouth disease has emerged in Greece, triggering heightened UK biosecurity measures.

While human health is not at risk, the disease is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals and can cause serious economic consequences.

UK farmers are urged to stay alert, adhere to strict biosecurity, and report any signs of illness immediately.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Foot and Mouth disease confirmed on a cattle farm in Lesvos, Greece
• UK introduces import restrictions on Greek dairy and meat products
• Human health not affected, but the disease spreads quickly among livestock
• Personal imports of EU meat and dairy remain banned
• Livestock keepers must follow strict biosecurity and report any symptoms
• Clinical signs: blisters, sores, lameness, and reluctance to feed
• Economic consequences include production losses and restricted market access