Lebanon: Monitoring Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak Following Imported Infected Cattle

Foot and Mouth Disease: Over 20,000 Cattle Vaccinated in 1,758 Farms to Limit Spread

Lebanese MP Bilal Hashimi discussed with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam the implications of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in the Bekaa region, highlighting the challenges faced by cattle breeders, milk producers, and farmers. Hashimi called for an official investigation to determine the reasons behind the import of a cattle herd from an infected country, holding the relevant authorities responsible for the incident.

In this context, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam confirmed his close follow-up on the matter, noting that a special meeting was held with Agriculture Minister Nizar Hani to further examine the issue and assess preventive and precautionary measures.

Hashimi also met with Agriculture Minister Nizar Hani, who confirmed his intention to conduct a transparent investigation through the Central Inspection to identify responsibilities and compensate affected farmers. He added that a technical committee has been formed to inspect affected farms and document damages. The minister explained that a field immunization plan covered over 20,415 cattle in 1,758 farms, coordinated with relevant authorities to ensure food security and establish a mechanism for farmer compensation when funding is available.

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