Foot and Mouth Hits U.K.

Following an investigation of suspected vesicular disease by the U.K.'s Department of Environment, Food & Rural Affairs Animal Health Division on a holding near Guildford in Surrey, England, laboratory results have indicated that the foot and mouth disease virus is present in samples from cattle on the premises.

On the basis of the initial laboratory results, Debby Reynolds, UK Chief Veterinary Officer, has confirmed FMD. In accordance with the legislation and contingency planning arrangements, all the cattle on the premises will be culled. A protection zone of 3 km radius and a surveillance zone of 10 km have been placed around the premises, and a Great Britain-wide national movement ban of all ruminants and pigs has been imposed.

Nationally, no animal movements are allowed except under license, controls are in place on movement of animal carcasses, animal gatherings, shearing and dipping are restricted, and all farms must increase levels of biosecurity. In both the protection and surveillance zones, there will be requirements for increased levels of biosecurity on farms, movement controls, controls on transportation of dung/manure and treatment of animal products to ensure destruction of the FMD virus.

The farm itself has been under restrictions since late Thursday evening when symptoms were reported to the local Animal Health office. A 1-km temporary restriction zone was placed around the premises earlier today while investigations and testing were completed, in line with domestic and EU legislation. The European Commission has been informed.

Source: Feedstuffs