Buffaloed in Brandenburg: Germany's first Brush with Foot-and-Mouth Disease after four Decades of Freedom

Abstract

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) virus is one of the most feared and most consequential pathogens of livestock worldwide. It can be spread rapidly by the transboundary movement of animals, animal products and byproducts. In January 2025, Germany detected its first FMD outbreak since 1988 in extensively reared water buffalo on a small farm in the state of Brandenburg, directly outside Berlin, the federal capital. Immediate control measures including a standstill for movements of susceptible animals and pre-emptive culling were implemented by the veterinary authorities. Whole-genome sequencing identified the virus as serotype O, topotype ME-SA, lineage SA-2018 and revealed extensive recombination, but cross-neutralization assays suggested good heterologous protection by an O/PanAsia-2 vaccine strain. Epidemiological back-calculation placed the time of virus introduction in late December 2024. Although the entry route remains unresolved, human-associated introduction is most likely. Network analysis revealed minimal farm connectivity, and simulations predicted low potential for onward transmission, which is consistent with the outbreak being ultimately restricted to a single herd. This event underscores the constant and unpredictable risk of introduction of the virus. Early detection through increased awareness and comprehensive differential diagnostics as well as the international collaboration of veterinary services, laboratories and experts are essential in the face of the global presence of FMD.