Contagious animal diseases

For the time being, the situation regarding contagious animal diseases in Finland is good. Finland is more or less free from animal diseases common in many other countries. When symptoms associated with a contagious disease are detected, samples are taken immediately in order to launch the investigation to identify the disease carrier as quickly as possible to prevent the disease from spreading. This applies to both wild and domestic animals, as many diseases can be passed between different species.

Frequently asked questions

The symptoms of contagious diseases can vary significantly, and some diseases can show no symptoms. Because of this, contact a veterinarian immediately if you see anything unusual in an animal population. 

Contact a veterinarian if you see

  • unusual symptoms in animals
  • significant changes in the behaviour of animals
  • significant changes in the productivity of animals
  • deaths that you cannot explain 
  • a large number of dead or sick animals at the same time.

If you see anything suspicious, contact the municipal veterinarian immediately. 

Be prepared to tell the veterinarian 

  • where the animals are kept or where they were found
  • the contact details of the owner of domestic animals
  • the number of sick of dead animals
  • about the symptoms
  • if other animals have been in contact with the sick or dead animals
  • if these animals have shown any symptoms

The municipal veterinarian will examine the animals and take any necessary samples. To find the contact details of your local municipal veterinarian, visit your municipality’s website. Municipal veterinarians report suspected diseases to the Regional State Administrative Agency, which will take action to determine if the outbreak is part of an epidemic.