Austrian Forces Prioritize Safety in Slovak Epidemic Response

Currently, 53 personnel from the Austrian Forces Disaster Relief Unit (AFDRU) are engaged in a critical operation in Slovakia, addressing an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease. Colonel Horst Dauerböck provided insights into the mission, emphasizing that the safety of the personnel is of utmost importance. The team is equipped with state-of-the-art protective gear, including suits, masks, and gloves, to ensure their well-being while they carry out their duties in Dunajská Streda, near the Hungarian border.

The Austrian military is assisting Slovakia in combating the spread of this viral infection, which, while harmless to humans, can be transmitted by them. The operations involve the use of potent disinfectants, which require stringent safety measures. Currently, the focus is on decontaminating vehicles at the Rajka border crossing between Slovakia and Hungary.

As part of this effort, the Bundesheer has deployed 18 vehicles, including six specialized chemical and biological defense units, along with other essential equipment. This extensive resource allocation enables the forces to effectively neutralize not only the foot-and-mouth virus but also other biological and chemical threats. According to Colonel Dauerböck, the decontamination process resembles a car wash, systematically treating the tires, wheel wells, undercarriage, and other surfaces until the vehicles are thoroughly sanitized.

The team operates in demanding ten-hour shifts around the clock, which has proven to be physically taxing for the soldiers. After each shift, personnel undergo a self-decontamination process before discarding their disposable suits. To date, they have successfully treated over 4,000 vehicles as part of this initiative.

The deployment of the Austrian forces is anticipated to continue for an additional two weeks, although it remains uncertain whether new tasks will arise or if the mission will expand. Colonel Dauerböck indicated that the situation is fluid and that the military will adhere strictly to the directives given by Slovak authorities.