Animal Health Veterinary Agency: A single case of atypical Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) has been confirmed on a farm in Essex. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the situation:
The Case:
– Animal’s Condition: The affected animal showed some clinical signs of BSE and was humanely culled on the farm as part of routine surveillance.
– Testing: The animal was tested as part of Defra’s routine surveillance programme, which aims to detect and contain diseases in cattle populations.
Public Health and Food Safety:
– No Risk: There is no risk to public health or food safety from this case, as the animal was not destined to enter the food chain.
– Controls in Place: Strict controls are in place to protect consumers from the risk of BSE, including controls on animal feed and removal of high-risk cattle parts.
Still on Animal Health Veterinary Agency
Atypical BSE:
– Naturally Occurring: Atypical BSE is a naturally occurring, non-contagious disease in cattle that occurs spontaneously.
– Distinct from Classical BSE: Atypical BSE is distinct from classical BSE, which is linked to contaminated feed.
– Low-Level Occurrence: Atypical BSE is believed to occur at a very low level in all cattle populations.
Response from Authorities:
– Chief Veterinary Officer: Christine Middlemiss, Chief Veterinary Officer, stated that the case demonstrates the effectiveness of the surveillance system for detecting and containing this type of disease.
– Food Standards Agency: Dr. James Cooper, Deputy Director of Food Policy at the Food Standards Agency, reassured consumers that there is no food safety risk and that strict controls are in place to protect consumers.
Impact on Trade and Status:
– Controlled Risk Status: Great Britain’s overall risk status for BSE remains at ‘controlled’, and there is no risk to food safety or public health.
– No Impact on Exports: The case does not affect the UK’s ability to export beef to other countries.
– International Notification: The World Organisation for Animal Health and trading partners have been informed of the case.
Notification Requirements:
– Notifiable Disease: BSE is a notifiable animal disease, and suspected cases must be reported immediately to the relevant authorities.
– Contact Information: Farmers and veterinarians can report suspected cases to the Defra Rural Services Helpline or their local Field Services Office.
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