Planning Your Travels? Simple Steps to Help Prevent Disease Outbreaks
As travel increases across Europe, so does the risk of spreading infectious diseases.
In response to the growing threat of transboundary animal diseases and zoonotic outbreaks across Europe, the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) and the Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME) have released a series of joint travel advice graphics promoting preventative biosecurity during journeys.
Key Recommendations for Travelers
-
Avoid Transporting Food Items: Never bring meat, raw milk, or dairy products home from trips, whether traveling inside or outside the EU. Undeclared animal products can easily introduce severe livestock diseases, such as Foot and Mouth Disease.
-
Practice Good Farm & Outdoor Biosecurity: Keep dogs on a leash during walks, avoid touching native livestock or wildlife, and respect commercial farm biosecurity rules. Clean and disinfect boots, clothes, or vehicles that have come into contact with farmed animals.
-
Dispose of Waste Responsibly: Throw leftover food into closed waste containers to prevent foraging wildlife from accessing pathogen-carrying food.
-
Prevent Rabies Exposure: Dog-mediated rabies remains endemic in many popular destinations worldwide. Check rabies vaccination requirements before traveling and strictly avoid feeding or touching stray animals and wildlife, even if they appear friendly.
-
Act Fast If Bitten: If bitten or scratched by a stray or wild animal, immediately wash the wound with soap and water and seek urgent medical help, regardless of prior vaccination.
