Case of atypical BSE confirmed in Scotland
“The fast detection of this case is proof that our surveillance system is doing its job" – Sheila Voas.
A case of atypical Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) has been identified in Scotland following routine surveillance.
The case was confirmed in a cow on a farm in Dumfries and Galloway. Movement restrictions have been put in place around the premises and the Animal Plant and Health Agency is investigating the origin of the disease.
The animal did not enter the human food chain and Food Standards Scotland has confirmed that there is no risk to human health.
Atypical BSE is non-contagious, unlike classical BSE. Before this current case, the most recent case of atypical BSE in the UK had been confirmed on a farm in Cornwall in March 2023. A case of classical BSE was detected on a farm in Ayrshire earlier this year.
Sheila Voas, chief veterinary officer of Scotland, said: “The fast detection of this case is proof that our surveillance system is doing its job.
“We are working closely with the Animal and Plant Health Agency and other partners to identify where the disease came from.
“I want to reassure both farmers and the public that this is an isolated case and of the aytypical strain of BSE which is not transmissible and not connected to contaminated feed. But, if any farmers are concerned, I would urge them to seek veterinary advice."
Elizabeth Mullineaux, president of the British Veterinary Association (BVA), added: "Vets in Scotland should refer to the government’s BSE guidance on the clinical signs and how to report any suspicious cases.”
The Scottish government's BSE guidance can be found here.
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With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
