New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker this summer announced that his agency is closely monitoring an emerging animal disease situation in the United Kingdom.

Foot-and mouth-disease, a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, swine, and other cloven-hooved animals, has been detected on a farm in Surrey, England.

“In response to the presence of foot-and-mouth disease in the U.K., we continue to work diligently to safeguard New York State’s valuable livestock population and the livelihoods of New York farm families,” Hooker said. “This being the height of fair season, we need the assistance of all New York citizens, whether exhibiting livestock or attending fairs as a visitor, to help by observing the precautions prescribed at these events to prevent the spread of all livestock diseases.”

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is working cooperatively with its federal counterparts to prevent the introduction of FMD in New York State and is prepared to combat the disease, should it arrive here. At county fairs and the State Fair, we will be distributing flyers to livestock exhibitors that cover animal health considerations before, during and after the fair. Also, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets’ field staff will be on heightened alert for all signs of serious animal diseases.