The last major foot-and-mouth outbreak in the UK occurred in 2001, causing widespread panic and significant disruption. The disease was first detected in Essex, and within weeks, it spread to farms across the country.

To control the outbreak, millions of animals, including cattle, sheep, and pigs, were culled, and strict movement restrictions were enforced.

The outbreak resulted in substantial economic losses, particularly in the farming and tourism sectors, and triggered a major public health scare.

It also led to significant changes in animal disease control measures and increased biosecurity protocols.

The economic impact of the 2001 outbreak was devastating, with estimates suggesting it cost the UK economy over £8 billion.

The livestock industry, along with tourism and related sectors, suffered severe losses due to culling, restricted movement, and a sharp decline in visitors to rural areas.