August 9, 2007

UK's FMD outbreak likely caused by human mistake

The recent foot-and-mouth-disease (FMD) epidemic in Surrey, United Kingdom may have been caused by a human mistake, according to British Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

HSE also shared the earlier conclusion that FMD emanated from one of two nearby laboratories in Pirbright and is unlikely that the virus would be transmitted through air or waste water.

The disease has been confirmed in cattle at two farms in the neighbourhood and all animals have been culled as well as establishing safety zones around the affected farms.

No pigs have been found infected, but as the disease can affect pigs, sheep and goats, trade and transport bans imposed on the UK affect many companies in the livestock industry.

The inspection said the Institute for Animal Health (IAH) and Merial Animal Health -- the institutions suspected to be the source of FMD -- have been using that specific FMD strain in the last month.

IAH only used several millilitres and vaccine producer Merial Animal Health used over 10,000 litres.

However, authorities conclude that the situation needs further investigation. The incident has stymied Merial's production of 300,000 FMD vaccines required by the British government.

Meanwhile, the British government has lifted the transport ban for livestock in Scotland, allowing livestock to be transported to Scottish abattoirs again.