Moscow to take preventive measures against foot-and-mouth disease

Moscow authorities are taking preventive measures against foot-and-mouth disease. Yuri Luzhkov has signed an appropriate directive. In particular, the city authorities will tighten control of the vehicles which arrive to Moscow, and carry livestock from the countries and regions exposed to the foot-and-mouth disease. The authorities are exerting control in the international airports over gathering and disposing of food waste products. Besides, according to the document signed by the Moscow Mayor, veterinary inspectors will thoroughly examine all types of vehicles and foreign trade cargoes crossing Russia' borders, including hand luggage, baggage and postal parcels. Veterinary requirements will also be tightened as applicable to the animals raised in the Moscow farms located within 20 kilometres from the check points at the state border of Russia /international airports, enterprises servicing international tourists, etc/. Sales of foodstuffs and animal products in markets, fairs and trade centres will be allowed after a veterinary and sanitary examination has been carried out. It is also pointed out in the document that any attempts to arrange unauthorized sales of foodstuffs in unauthorized places are prohibited, with the Moscow main interior department and prefectures being empowered to monitor the situation. The Mayor's directive has also provided for introduction of a temporary ban in the capital on arranging of international fairs with participation of animals. The organizers of entertainment events have been recommended to refrain from fairs and show programs in which animals take part. Finally, by 25 April, preventive vaccination will be arranged for the animals that are prone to foot-and-month decease.

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