Update on Xylella fastidiosa outbreak in Luxembourg

The Plant Health Advisory Forum (PHAF) has shared an update following reports of an outbreak of Xylella fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa affecting grapevines (Vitis vinifera) at three sites in Luxembourg.

The affected sites are located in the municipalities of Mertert and Grevenmacher, within Luxembourg's Moselle wine-growing region. Eradication measures are being implemented in accordance with EU requirements, with buffer zones surrounding the affected areas extending into neighbouring Germany.

Further details are available on the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO) Global Database.

Potential Implications for the UK

Based on current information, the risk to the UK from direct imports of plant propagating material from Luxembourg is considered low. However, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is reviewing trade data to confirm this assessment.

UK plant health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and seeking further information from Luxembourg's National Plant Protection Organisation (NPPO) and the European Commission to better understand the nature and likely source of the outbreak.

This information will help assess any potential implications for the UK and inform appropriate follow-up action.

UK Plant Health Protections

The UK continues to maintain some of the most robust protections against Xylella fastidiosa in Europe. These include stringent import requirements and an extensive national surveillance programme, incorporating testing of plants without visible symptoms in line with European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guidance.

Together, these measures provide a strong framework for preventing the introduction and spread of this harmful plant pathogen.

Further updates will be shared as additional information becomes available.