Imports of pigs, cattle and sheep from Germany have been banned after a case of foot and mouth disease was confirmed in the country.

Ministers announced the measures on Tuesday in an attempt to prevent the spread of the disease to the UK, where there are currently no known cases.

German imports account for around 10 per cent of the UK’s pork products and about four per cent of its dairy, according to figures from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.

Dr Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer, urged livestock keepers to remain vigilant for signs of the illness.

Foot and mouth poses no risk to humans or food safety, but is highly contagious among cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals.

Clinical signs vary depending on the animal, but symptoms in cattle can include sores and blisters on the feet, mouth and tongue, as well as a fever, lameness and reluctance to feed. Lameness and blistering are the main symptoms in sheep and pigs.