The Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute (FLI) has identified the serotype of the virus in the first nationwide outbreak of the Maul- and Klauenseuche (MKS) in Brandenburg since 1988. The state ministry of agriculture announced the finding on Saturday evening.
A serotype is a variation within a sub-species of bacteria or viruses, identified through serological tests. The serotype is a formal means of more detailed classification of bacteria and viruses at the molecular level.
“With the highest commitment and expertise, the experts of our Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute are supporting the clarification of the Maul- and Klauenseuche outbreak in Brandenburg – I extend my thanks” said Federal Minister of Agriculture Cem Özdemir. “The National Reference Laboratory of the FLI has now established the serotype of the virus found. This is an important step in the fight against the animal disease.”
“It’s good that the Brandenburg and Berlin authorities have reacted quickly to prevent a spread” Özdemir added. “The goal must be to quickly contain the Maul- and Klauenseuche and minimize the consequences for animals and the damage to our agricultural and food industry as much as possible.”
In the meantime, the state of Berlin has also instructed that no hoofed animals be exhibited at the Green Week, which will take place in Berlin from January 17 to 26, 2025, as a precaution against the spread of the disease.
Özdemir will meet with industry representatives on Monday to discuss the outbreak of the MKS. A central crisis team for animal diseases has been convened for Tuesday, and the minister will also consult with experts from the FLI and the affected state of Brandenburg, which is responsible for combating the outbreak.
The Maul- and Klauenseuche was detected in held water buffalo in the Märkisch Oderland district of Brandenburg by the state’s laboratory and confirmed by the National Reference Laboratory for MKS at the FLI on Friday. It is currently unclear whether it is a single case or if further herds have been infected with the virus.