Cattle breeders estimate their losses at 16 billion yen.

The foot-and-mouth disease virus appeared on April 20 in Miyazaki Prefecture on the island of Kyushu. Its spread threatens the extinction of Miyazaki cows. They belong to the Japanese wagyu cattle species, which gives them what is called marbled meat known for its delicate flavor.

Wagyu beef is considered the most expensive in the world. Raising breeding bulls is time-consuming and labor-intensive, as the animals are massaged with sake, fed beer and played classical music.

Authorities in Miyazaki Prefecture announced that 49 breeding bulls would be slaughtered and the remaining six would be moved to safety.

The Japanese government on Monday created a group that will be responsible for disinfecting agricultural vehicles in Miyazaki.

This is not just a problem for Miyazaki, but for the entire island of Kyushu. The most important thing is to stop the spread of the disease, said the mayor of Oita, Miyazaki Prefecture, Ban Kugimiya.

Following the discovery of the first case of foot-and-mouth disease, Japan announced the suspension of exports of beef, including Wagyu beef, pork and ungulates. Japan exports 35 tonnes of wagyu beef per year.

The foot-and-mouth disease virus is highly contagious and is easily transmitted between cattle, pigs, goats and sheep. Most often, he kills young people. Human infections are rare. (PORRIDGE)

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