Legislative Decree No. 274 implementing Council Directive 2003/85/EC on Community measures for the control of foot-and-mouth disease.

This Legislative Decree establishes: (a) the minimum control measures to be applied in the event of an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease of whatever type of virus; and (b) certain preventive measures aimed at increasing awareness and preparedness of the competent authorities and the farming community for foot-and-mouth disease. Foot-and-mouth disease is a compulsorily notifiable disease: in case of suspicion or detection of the disease, the competent local health authority must be immediately informed. Particular provisions are laid down with respect to: cleaning and disinfection of holdings; measures to be applied in slaughterhouses, border inspection posts and means of transportation; establishment of protection and surveillance zones; emergency vaccination; and measures to be applied on animal products. In case of infringement, the penalties laid down in article 79 shall be applied.