“Robust plans are already in place to minimise the risk of disease incursion to support Britain’s farming community and food security,” said UK Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Christine Middlemiss after Cypriot cases were confirmed. (gov.uk)

Defra’s latest update on 17 March 2026 confirms there are no UK cases of foot and mouth disease and the overall risk to the UK is assessed as low. Recent European confirmations include Greece in March 2026 and Cyprus in February 2026. The last UK outbreak was in 2007. (gov.uk)

For farms across Cumbria, North Yorkshire, Lancashire and the North East, the ask is simple: stay watchful and report fast. If you suspect FMD, call APHA on 03000 200 301 in England, 0300 303 8268 in Wales, or your local Field Services Office in Scotland. FMD affects cloven‑hoofed animals and is not a public health or food safety risk. (gov.uk)

Cyprus has begun mass vaccination and control measures following confirmed cases affecting multiple farms, with EU veterinary support deployed. Greek authorities have also reported cases this month. These developments explain why UK officials stress vigilance despite a low domestic risk rating. (apnews.com)

Travellers returning via northern gateways-Manchester, Newcastle and Leeds Bradford airports, and ferry routes to the North-must not bring meat or dairy from the EU, EFTA states, the Faroe Islands or Greenland for personal use. If in doubt, leave it abroad or bin it at the border. (gov.uk)

Ministers have repeatedly underlined the holidaymaker rules since last year. The government’s July guidance urged people heading to Europe not to bring back meat or dairy, a message that still applies this spring. (gov.uk)

Trade rules have also tightened. Commercial imports from Cyprus and Greece face restrictions covering hay and straw, live susceptible animals, germplasm, untreated meat and dairy, casings and certain animal by‑products. Northern traders should check consignment details before shipping. (gov.uk)

Local port health teams are already pointing importers to the new instructions. Hull & Goole Port Health Authority has circulated Defra’s notices on the Cypriot outbreak and the suspended categories. (hullandgoolepha.gov.uk)

On farm, keep movements tight and hygiene tighter. Disinfect vehicles and boots, control visitor access, keep movement records straight, and review isolation plans for new or returning stock. Markets and shows must follow the Animal Gatherings rules and best practice on biosecurity. (gov.uk)

The North remembers why this matters. In 2001 more than six million animals were slaughtered and the cost to the public sector alone topped £3bn, with wider private losses above £5bn. That legacy still shapes rural business resilience today. (publications.parliament.uk)

For now, the message is steady: UK risk remains low, but vigilance is non‑negotiable. Keep the APHA numbers handy, keep the disinfectant fresh, and check your paperwork before travel or trade. We’ll update readers as Defra and APHA publish further assessments. (gov.uk)