INFORMATION BULLETIN
Date: 12 September 2007
Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
Out of hours telephone 020 7270 8960
Foot and Mouth Disease update: national movement ban and slaughter on suspicion
Limited movements of animals susceptible to Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) will be allowed under strict biosecurity arrangements to address immediate welfare issues, in line with the contingency plan. The ban on movements of animals susceptible to FMD, announced earlier today, remains in place.
In addition, a decision has been taken to slaughter on suspicion animals on a farm adjacent to the Infected Premises in Surrey that was confirmed earlier today. This is a precautionary measure and was identified by Animal Health during surveillance this afternoon.
Debby Reynolds Chief Veterinary Officer said:
“This is a developing situation . Our objective is to contain and eradicate the disease. As with the outbreak last month, we will be seeking to take a staged and risk-based approach to controls. I urge all animal keepers to remain vigilant and follow the most stringent of biosecurity measures.”
Under the national movement ban rules the decision has been taken to permit under general licence :
- Movements of dairy cattle across or along public highways for the purpose of milking;
- Movement of FMD susceptible animals for emergency veterinary treatment;
Movement of animals from markets and shows will be allowed to farms under specific licence issued by Animal Health and subject to veterinary inspection.
Some very limited movements are necessary for immediate welfare and practical reasons where animals have been at markets or at shows . Movements and collections will only be permitted to take place in accordance with strict licensing conditions, in particular biosecurity measures . Similar arrangements are in place in Scotland and Wales.
Further information
The details of current Protection and Surveillance Zones in Surrey and the Temporary Control Zone in Norfolk can be found on the Defra website at: www.defra.gov.uk/footandmouth/
End
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Page published: 12 September 2007 21:50