Revised bluetongue disease control strategy published
Defra has published a revised Bluetongue Disease Control Strategy for the UK.
Bluetongue re-emerged this year in the Northern European countries affected during 2006 (Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, parts of Western Germany and areas of Northern France). On the basis of these developments, there is a low but increased risk of spread to the UK from the affected areas.
Defra and the devolved governments have been working in partnership with industry to review Bluetongue control measures and share decision-making to agree this control strategy, which builds on the principles of responsibility and cost sharing.
The plans are set out in a Bluetongue Control Strategy document and, in line with other exotic diseases, includes rigorous measures to keep disease out of the UK and contain any outbreaks.
Chief Veterinary Officer, Debby Reynolds said:
“We have been reviewing our Bluetongue controls to ensure they address new risks proportionately and effectively, and reflects the emerging evidence from the outbreaks in Northern Europe in the last 12 months.
“The latest disease situation in Northern Europe highlights the importance of preparedness for this disease. While the risk to the U.K. is still low, it is clearly heightened. With the presence of disease in Northern Europe, it is important that animal keepers are vigilant, alert to signs of disease and that they report any suspicion to Animal Health immediately.”
Bluetongue has no public health implications and does not affect humans.
Further information
Page published: 23 August 2007