July 22, 2009
EU to draft law on AH1N1 for swine farms
The European Commission is preparing legislation on a possible AH1N1 outbreak after the disease was detected in Canada and Argentina pig farms.
This was reported by the Agri- and Horticultural Organisation (LTO) in the Netherlands.
Inspired by LTO in the Netherlands, the European Commission spoke about the current situation in Europe. LTO and the European organisation of farmers and cooperatives Copa Cogeca have clearly stated that pigs at the moment are not involved in the influenza outbreak.
Klaas Jan Osinga, LTO, was quoted to say that "in case AH1N1 is found on one pig farm only, a mandatory isolation should not lead to stigmatisation and potential trade problems."
In addition, agricultural organisations stated that emphasis should be with fighting the disease in humans. Authorities said "it is no use to block the livestock operation when in the direct surroundings, a large number possibly have been spreading the virus, possibly unnoticed."
