A member of the Agriculture and Water Committee of the Iraqi Parliament says the threat of animal foot and mouth diseases in Iraq is still there, nearly a month after the first case was reported.

Sair Juburi, a member of the Agriculture and Water Committee of the Iraqi Parliament, said in a statement the disease has spread to about 20 areas, killing large numbers of animals.

He added, “The threat remains, which requires awareness and continued adherence to preventive measures, as well as eliminating the movement of animals between provinces, especially in areas with infected animals.”

He added: that the importation of animals from abroad was the main reason for the resurgence of foot and mouth diseases, as some of them were found to have already been infected. This requires a review of import mechanisms to prevent future outbreaks of the deadly disease.

He added: The Agriculture and Water Committee is closely monitoring the spread of the disease and working in coordination with the relevant authorities to control it.

Foot and mouth disease is one of the most dangerous viral diseases affecting some animals. It is known for its rapid spread and causes huge economic damage, especially in countries that rely on livestock as a major source of food and national income.

The disease affects sheep, goats, cows, buffalo, giraffes, and bears and does not affect poultry.