Mongolia: Outbreak of disease triggers martial law in Arkhangai province June 29

Event

Mongolia's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) declared martial law on Friday, June 29, in central-west Arkhangai province to contain the spread of the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), a highly contagious virus found in animals with divided hooves. Outbreaks of FMD have been reported in six soums (administrative subdivisions) in Arkhangai province as of June 29.

Context

FMD affects animals such as sheep, goats, cattle, and pigs and is characterized by fever and blister-like sores on the tongue and lips, in the mouth, between the hooves, and other sensitive areas. It also causes severe production losses. While FMD does not pose a direct threat to humans, outbreaks of the disease are costly to contain and highly disruptive to the livestock industry.

Advice

Individuals in Mongolia are advised to monitor developments to the situation and to follow all instructions issued by local authorities.