Siberian Cattle Plague: Mystery Illness Sparks Mass Culls

Siberian authorities are struggling to contain a devastating cattle illness that has necessitated the culling of thousands of animals. Initially attributed to pasteurellosis and rabies, the outbreak is reportedly complicated by unspecified "other diseases." This situation has ignited rare protests among farmers, who are calling for the resignation of key agricultural officials.

Concerns linger regarding an unconfirmed outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, a highly contagious viral illness that typically requires mass culling. Such a confirmation could severely impact Russia's agricultural exports, a sector targeted for significant growth. Russia was recognized as foot-and-mouth-free in 2025. Laboratory analysis reveals the pasteurellosis strain has mutated, exhibiting increased aggression, leading officials to deem rapid removal of sick animals as the only containment strategy.

This widespread outbreak has led to a ban on livestock exports from 15 affected regions in Siberia and central Russia. The Novosibirsk region declared a state of emergency, with officials confirming pasteurellosis and rabies as causes. Protests continue, with one farmer reporting brief detention after her cattle were culled.