EEE Claims Mass. Colt

http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=16717&source=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheHorse%2FNews+%28TheHorse.com+-+News%29&utm_content=Twitter

BOVINE NEONATAL PANCYTOPENIA - EUROPE (02): BVD VACCINE AUTHORISATION SUSPENDED

***************************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases


Date: Fri 16 Jul 2010
Source: European Medicines Agency, press release EMA/CVMP/416930/2010
[extracted, edited]



Committee for Medicinal Products for Veterinary Use (CVMP) Meeting of
13-15 Jul 2010
----------------------------------------------------------------------
[Under the section 'Community referrals and related procedures', the
following text was included]:

Extract
-------
The Committee concluded the procedure for PregSure BVD and associated
names (inactivated bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) type 1 virus) from
Pfizer Animal Health. The matter was notified to the Committee by
Germany under Article 78 of Directive 2001/82/EC, due to concerns
relating to animal safety following use of the vaccine in dams and
development of bovine neonatal pancytopenia in calves.

The Committee reviewed pharmacovigilance data, as well as
epidemiological and laboratory data, and, although the aetiology of
the disorder remains obscure at present and the associated risk
factors have yet to be determined, the information available is
sufficient to indicate a potential association with the product.
Therefore, the Committee adopted by majority an opinion concluding
that the marketing authorisations for PregSure BVD and associated
names should be suspended until scientific evidence is available to
demonstrate that the administration of the vaccine to dams according
to authorised conditions of use does not lead to an increased risk of
bovine neonatal pancytopenia or that risk mitigation measures
ensuring the safe use of the product can be implemented. In addition,
the CVMP recommended that all batches of the product be recalled at
wholesale level.

--
Communicated by:
Sabine Zentis
Castleview Pedigree English Longhorns
Gut Laach
52385 Nideggen
Germany


['Bovine neonatal pancytopenia' (BNP) was agreed as the official name
of the syndrome during the Satellite Symposium on Haemorrhagic
Diathesis in Calves, 2 Dec 2009, Marseille, on the occasion of the
European Buiatrics Forum. Previously, it was known as "calf bleeding
syndrome", recorded, since 2007, in several European countries
including Great Britain (England, Wales, and Scotland), Belgium,
France, Netherlands, Italy, Germany, and Ireland. Investigations
concerning the syndrome, in particular related to the possibility of
a role played by BVD vaccination, are being carried out in several of
the said countries.

BNP is suspected to have a multifactorial basis. A causal
relationship between PregSure BVD and BNP has not (yet?) been
established. In June 2010, Pfizer Animal Health (PAH) decided to
voluntarily stop further sales of PregSure BVD pending further
investigations into the BNP syndrome in calves. - Mod.AS]

[see also:
Bovine neonatal pancytopenia - Europe: BVD vaccine susp. 20100607.1896
Bovine neonatal pancytopenia - Germany (02): BVD vaccine susp. 20100603.1845
Bovine neonatal pancytopenia - Germany: vaccinal etiology susp. 20100409.1142
2009
----
Undiagnosed disease, fatal, bovine - Europe (07): Belgium, treatment
20091209.4195
Undiagnosed disease, fatal, bovine - Europe (06): review 20091207.4168
Undiagnosed disease, fatal, bovine - Europe (05): Germany 20091031.3769
Undiagnosed disease, fatal, bovine - Europe (04): Germany 20091018.3578
Undiagnosed disease, fatal, bovine - Europe (03): France 20091006.3465
Undiagnosed disease, fatal, bovine - Europe (02): RFI 20091005.3459
Undiagnosed disease, fatal, bovine - Europe: RFI 20091003.3441
Undiagnosed disease & deaths, bovine - UK: (Scotland) RFI 20090923.3345
Undiagnosed disease & deaths, bovine - Germany (03): ongoing 20090329.1214
Undiagnosed disease & deaths, bovine - Germany (02): sugg. etiology
20090208.0566
Undiagnosed disease & deaths, bovine - Germany: RFI 20090202.0470
Circovirus, swine - Switzerland 20091004.3453]
...................................arn/mj/lm

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Shredding Cows Alive / Warning: Graphic Vid

There is a video on YouTube that has been going around for awhile (Google "Cow Shred Alive") but there is little info there on the original source of the vid.

We MUST find out who does this! I found a link on line to the same vid only not the one on YouTube,...which may be from the original poster. Click on link below to see that vid uploaded by someone named "Alper Buyukhan" in Turkey. Perhaps they would know who does this? I am sure it is not an isolated event;

Showing "Alpers" vid;
http://www.livevideo.com/video/BD2BCE6037064EE19EFA0B44B0463BF2/dead-animals.aspx

I am thinking that even if we can never discover who did this to this particular cow, that still we must get the word out that this sort of farm cruelty is being done at all AND MAY BE COMMON PRACTICE in some places. We must keep a closer eye on not only the farms but the rendering operations also.....

Please also bear in mind that right here in the good old USA, it is "standard practice" in chick hatcheries to grind up the male chicks alive. The USDA has ruled this practice "humane" ; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJ--faib7to

Also I have heard of at least one case where the ruling was applied to fully grown birds, and I will be posting that case if I can find it again...it goes back several years.

Job-FAIL! Bigtime.

Pathogens and Potential Risks Related to Livestock & Poultry Manure

http://www.extension.org/pages/Pathogens_and_Potential_Risks_Related_to_Livestock_or_Poultry_Manure

EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS - PANAMA (04): (DARIEN, PANAMA), SUSPECTED

***********************************************
A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases


Date: Tue 6 Jul 2010
Source: Telemetro.com [in Spanish, trans. Corr.SB, edited]



A new suspected case of equine encephalitis occurred on Tuesday [6
Jul 2010] at the Children's Hospital, which brings to 25 the number
of cases. This case is a 6-year-old girl from Meteti, Darien.
According to a report by the Ministry of Health [MoH], the health
condition of the child is stable.

Of the 25 suspected cases, 4 remain hospitalized, 20 were discharged,
and one died. Samples taken from these patients were sent for
analysis to the Gorgas Memorial Institute.

The MoH reiterates that it is important that people experiencing any
symptoms or signs such as fever, headache and bone pain, irritability
(if the child is under one year), vomiting or diarrhea, contact their
nearest health center for medical evaluation.

[Byline: Denise Lara]

--
Communicated by:
HealthMap Alerts via ProMED-mail


[The outbreak continues. There is still no MOH confirmation that
these are cases of eastern equine encephalitis infection. There may
have been recent transmission of Venezuelan equine encephalitis to
equine animals in the area. A previous ProMED-mail post indicated
that Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) virus was responsible for
the equine cases, as the government of Panama had reported to OIE
(see ProMED-mail archive no. 20100609.1934).

The provinces of Panama and Darien can be located on the map at
. The
HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map of Panama is available at
. - Mod.TY]

[see also:
Eastern equine encephalitis - Panama (03): (DR, PN) 20100627.2148
Eastern equine encephalitis - Panama (02): (DR, PN) 20100625.2112
Eastern equine encephalitis - Panama: (DR, PN) 20100621.2080
Venezuelan equine encephalitis - Panama (03): (DR) fatal 20100620.2070
Venezuelan equine encephalitis - Panama (02): (DR) fatal 20100617.2034
Venezuelan equine encephalitis - Panama: (DR) fatal 20100613.1984
Venezuelan equine encephalitis, equine - Panama: (DR) OIE 20100609.1934
1998
----
Venezuelan equine encephalitis - Panama (02) 19981204.2332
Equine encephalitis - Panama (Darien) (02) 19981015.2046
Equine encephalitis - Panama (Darien) 19980827.1700]
..................................lm/sb/ty/msp/lm

*##########################################################*
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using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
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Human Mad-Cow Disease

PRION DISEASE UPDATE 2010 (06)
******************************
A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases


[With the continuing decline of the number of cases in the human
population of variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease -- abbreviated
previously as vCJD or CJD (new var.) in ProMED-mail -- it has been
decided to broaden the scope of the occasional ProMED-mail updates to
include other prion-related diseases. In addition to vCJD, data on
other forms of CJD: sporadic, iatrogenic, familial, and GSS
(Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker disease) are included also since they
may have some relevance to the incidence and etiology of vCJD. -
Mod.CP]

In this update:
[1] UK: National CJD Surveillance Unit -- monthly statistics as of
Mon 5 Jul 2010 -- one new vCJD case
[2] France: Institut de Veille Sanitaire -- monthly statistics as of
1 Jul 2010 -- no new vCJD cases
[3] USA - not updated since 30 Apr 2010
[4] Validation of vCJD diagnostic criteria

******
[1] UK: National CJD Surveillance Unit -- monthly statistics as of
Mon 5 Jul 2010 -- one new vCJD case
Date: Mon 5 Jul 2010
Source: UK National CJD Surveillance Unit, monthly statistics [edited]



The number of deaths due to definite or probable vCJD cases has
increased to 169. A total of 4 definite/probable patients are still
alive so that the total number of definite or probable vCJD cases is
now 173. So far, two fatalities have been recorded in 2010.

Although 3 new deaths due to vCJD were recorded in 2009 and 2 deaths
so far in 2010, the overall picture is still consistent with the view
that the vCJD outbreak in the UK is in decline, albeit now with a
pronounced tail. The 1st cases were observed in 1995, and the peak
number of deaths was 28 in the year 2000, followed by 20 in 2001, 17
in 2002, 18 in 2003, 9 in 2004, 5 in 2005, 5 in 2006, 5 in 2007, one
in 2008, 3 in 2009, and now 2 so far in 2010.

Totals for all types of CJD cases in the UK so far in the year 2010
-------------------------------------------------------------------
During the 1st 6 months or 2010, there have been 67 referrals, 24
fatal cases of sporadic CJD, 2 fatal cases of vCJD, one case of
iatrogenic CJD, and none of familial CJD or GSS.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail


******
[2] France: Institut de Veille Sanitaire -- monthly statistics as of
1 Jul 2010 -- no new vCJD cases
Date: Thu 1 Jul 2010
Source: IVS - Maladie de Creutzfeldt-Jakob et maladies apparentees
[in French, trans. & summ. Mod.CP, edited]



During the 1st 6 months of 2010, there were 842 referrals, 35
confirmed cases of sporadic CJD, one case of familial CJD, and no
cases of iatrogenic CJD or vCJD.

A total of 25 cases of confirmed or probable vCJD has now been
recorded in France since records began in 1992. There was 1 case in
1996, 1 in 2000, 1 in 2001, 3 in 2002, 2 in 2004, 6 in 2005, 6 in
2006, 3 in 2007, 2 in 2009, and none so far in 2010.

The 25 confirmed cases comprise 13 females and 12 males. All 25 are
now deceased. Their median age is 37 (between 19 and 58). 7 were
resident in the Ile-de-France and 18 in the provinces. All the
identified cases have been Met-Met homozygotes. No risk factor has
been identified. One of the 25 had made frequent visits to the United
Kingdom.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail


******
[3] USA - not updated since 30 Apr 2010
Date: Fri 30 Apr 2010
Source: US National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center [edited]



During the 4 month period 1 Jan 2010 to 30 Apr 2010, there were 116
referrals, of which 62 were classified as Prion disease, comprising
31 cases of sporadic CJD, 7 of familial CJD, and no cases of
iatrogenic CJD or vCJD. Since 1996 when records began there have been
3617 referrals, of which 2117 were classified as prion disease,
comprising 1781 cases of sporadic CJD, 301 of familial CJD, 4 of
iatrogenic CJD, and 3 of vCJD. The 3 cases of VCJD were considered to
have been contracted in the United Kingdom or Saudi Arabia. The prion
disease category includes 28 (24 in 2010) cases with type
determination pending in which vCJD has been excluded.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail


******
[4] Validation of vCJD diagnostic criteria
Date: Wed 27 Jan 2010
Source: Ann Neurol. 2010 Jun;67(6):761-70. [edited]



Ref: Validation of diagnostic criteria for variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Author: Heath CA, Cooper SA, Murray K, Lowman A, Henry C, MacLeod
MA, Stewart GE, Zeidler M, MacKenzie JM, Ironside JW, Summers DM,
Knight RS, Will RG.
At: Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Western General Hospital,
Edinburgh, UK. craigheath@nhs.net]

Abstract
--------
Objective: Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), a novel form of
human prion disease, was recognized in 1996. The disease affected a
younger cohort than sporadic CJD, and the early clinical course was
dominated by psychiatric and sensory symptoms. In an attempt to aid
diagnosis and establish standardization between surveillance
networks, diagnostic criteria were established. These were devised
from the features of a small number of cases and modified in 2000 as
the clinical phenotype was established. Since then, only minor
changes have been introduced; revalidation of the criteria in the
current format is overdue.

Methods: Included in this study are autopsy/cerebral biopsy-proven
cases of vCJD referred to the National CJD Surveillance Unit (NCJDSU)
between 1995 and 2004 and suspect cases in which an alternative
diagnosis was identified following autopsy/cerebral biopsy.

Results: Over the 10-year period, 106 definite cases of vCJD and 45
pathologically confirmed "noncases" were identified from the archives
of the NCJDSU. The median age at onset of the cases was significantly
younger than that of the noncases (27 years [range, 12-74 years] vs
43 years [range, 10-64 years]), and the median duration of illness
was significantly shorter (14 months [range, 6-39 months] vs 22
months [range, 2-139 months]). The most commonly identified core
clinical feature in cases was dementia; persistent painful sensory
symptoms were the least frequent. Eighty-eight of 106 (83 percent)
vCJD cases were retrospectively classified as probable in life, 6
cases were classified as possible. Most cases were classified as
probable on the basis of core clinical features and brain magnetic
resonance imaging. To date, the diagnostic criteria remain 100
percent specific, with no autopsy/ cerebral biopsy-proven noncases
classified as probable in life.

Interpretation: This study confirms that the diagnostic criteria for
vCJD are sensitive and specific and provide a useful standard
framework for case classification in a surveillance setting.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail


[These findings confirm the accuracy of the diagnosis of variant
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease as a distinct disease entity. The epidemic
in the UK is now characterised by lengthening tail. - Mod.CP]

[see also:
Prion disease update 2010 (05) 2010 20100507.1488
Prion disease update 2010 (04) 2010 20100405.1091
Prion disease update 2010 (03) 20100304.0709
Prion disease update 2010 (02) 2010 20100205.0386
Prion disease update 2010 20100107.0076
2009
----
Prion disease update 2009 (10) 20091103.3784
vCJD - Italy: susp. 20091024.3671
Prion disease update 2009 (09) 20091005.3461
Prion disease update 2009 (08) 20090908.3170
Prion disease update 2009 (07) 20090806.2783
Prion disease update 2009 (06) 20090706.2433
Prion disease update 2009 (05) 20090602.2054
Prion disease update 2009 (04) 20090406.1337
vCJD, 5th death - Spain (Cantabria) 20090307.0953
Prion disease update 2009 (03) 20090305.0918
Prion disease update 2009 (02) 20090202.0463
Prion disease update 2009 (01) 20090108.0076
2008
----
Prion disease update 2008 (14): new vCJD wave imminent? 20081218.3980
Prion disease update 2008 (13) 20081201.3780
Prion disease update 2008 (12) 20081103.345
Prion disease update 2008 (11) 20081006.3159
vCJD, mother & son - Spain: (Leon) 20080926.3051
Prion disease update 2008 (10) 20080902.2742
vCJD - Spain: susp. 20080410.1311
Prion disease update 2008 (05) 20080408.1285
Prion disease update 2008 (01): correction 20080104.0046
Prion disease update 2008 (01) 20080102.0014
2007
----
Prion disease update 2007 (08) 20071205.3923
Prion disease update 2007 (07) 20071105.3602
Prion disease update 2007 (06) 20071003.3269
Prion disease update 2007 (05) 20070901.2879
Prion disease update 2007 (04) 20070806.2560
Prion disease update 2007 (03) 20070702.2112
Prion disease update 2007 (02) 20070604.1812
Prion disease update 2007 20070514.1542
CJD (new var.) update 2007 (05) 20070403.1130
CJD (new var.) update 2007 (04) 20070305.0780
CJD (new var.) update 2007 (03) 20070205.0455
CJD (new var.) update 2007 (02): South Korea, susp 20070115.0199
2006
----
CJD (new var.), blood transfusion risk 20061208.3468
CJD, transmission risk - Canada (ON) 20061207.3457
CJD (new var.) update 2006 (12) 20061205.3431
CJD (new var.) update 2006 (11) 20061106.3190
CJD (new var.) update 2006 (10) 20061002.2820
CJD (new var.) - Netherlands: 2nd case 20060623.1741
CJD (new var.) - UK: 3rd transfusion-related case 20060209.0432
CJD (new var.) update 2006 (02) 20060206.0386
CJD (new var.) update 2006 20060111.0101
2005
----
CJD (new var.) update 2005 (12) 20051209.3547
CJD (new var.) update 2005 (11) 20051108.3270
CJD (new var.) update 2005 (10) 20051006.2916
CJD (new var.) update 2005 (02) 20050211.0467
CJD (new var.) - UK: update 2005 (01) 20050111.0095]
...................cp/ejp/lm

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************************************************************
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information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
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or archived material.
************************************************************
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************************************************************
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ANTHRAX, HUMAN, LIVESTOCK - INDIA: (WEST BENGAL

************************************************
A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases


Date: 5 Jul 2010
Source: India Report [edited]



At least 7 persons suffered from anthrax after they handled the meat
of an affected bull at Domkol in Murshidabad district.

A total of 8 cattle have died and several other livestock have been
found to suffer from anthrax at Shibnagar village where the locals
ate the meat of the affected bull, officials said.

Deputy Director of Animal Husbandry Kamdeb Sardar said the disease
spread to the villagers who handled the meat of the affected cattle.
Infection occurred to them during handling of the affected meat as
the anthrax bacteria came in contact with a cut or abrasion in the
skin, he said.

Officials have reached the area and the cattle and people were
vaccinated of anthrax bacteria, Sardar said.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail


[India rarely vaccinates humans against anthrax so I think we can
presume that just the cattle were vaccinated and the people received
antibiotics. While this account mentions people eating the
contaminated meat the 'scientific' explanation, given I suspect by Dr
Sardar, is more typical of cutaneous anthrax.

To find Murshibadad, go to:

- Mod MHJ]

[see also:
2008
----
Anthrax, elephant - India: (West Bengal) 20080521.1680
Anthrax, bovine - India: (West Bengal) 20080206.0485
2006
----
Anthrax, human, bovine - India (West Bengal) 20060618.1692
2005
----
Anthrax, human, livestock - India (West Bengal) 20050518.1365
2004
----
Anthrax, human & livestock - India (West Bengal)(03) 20040924.2630
Anthrax, human - India (West Bengal) 20040610.1562
Anthrax, human & livestock - India (West Bengal)(02) 20040420.1106
Anthrax, human & livestock - India (West Bengal) 20040419.1092
Bovine deaths - India (West Bengal): anthrax not 20040204.0418
Bovine deaths - India (West Bengal): anthrax susp. 20040202.0395
2003
----
Anthrax, human - India (West Bengal) (04) 20030711.1709
Anthrax, human - India (West Bengal) (03) 20030707.1664
Anthrax, human - India (West Bengal) (02): confirmed 20030630.1609
Anthrax, human - India (West Bengal): suspected 20030627.1585
2000
----
Anthrax, elephant - India (West Bengal) (05) 20000306.0306
Anthrax, elephant - India (West Bengal) (04) 20000305.0304
Anthrax, elephant - India (West Bengal) (03) 20000303.0293
Anthrax, elephant - India (West Bengal) (02) 20000303.0291
Anthrax, elephant - India (West Bengal) 20000222.0238]
..........................sb/mhj/ejp/lm

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************************************************************
ProMED-mail makes every effort to verify the reports that
are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the
information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
************************************************************
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############################################################

Kobe beef farmers worry about cow illness outbreak

July 5, 2010

By JUN STINSON Associated Press Writer
Prized for its tender, marbled texture and succulent flavor, Kobe beef is a delicacy that can cost 19,000 yen ($200) for a slab of steak at some Japanese restaurants.

But cattle farmers near the central city of Kobe are worried an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in the southern prefecture of Miyazaki, another key beef-raising region that often supplies calves to Kobe breeders, could spread to them as well — and impact Japan's premium beef market for years to come.

"I have to think seriously about the risk," said Shigefumi Tanimoto, a rancher for more than 20 years on Awaji Island, just south of Kobe. "If the foot-and-mouth disease came to Kobe, I could lose everything."

The disease broke out about two months ago in Miyazaki, on the southern island of Kyushu. To keep it from spreading, more than 270,000 animals were destroyed, including several valuable stud bulls, bred to sire calves with optimal fattiness. Under a state of emergency declared by the governor, people who lived in particular areas were urged not to travel, and vehicles leaving the prefecture had to have their wheels disinfected.

So far, the outbreak appears to have been contained, and no cows in the Kobe region have been found infected. Last week, the government said it completed preventative measures, allowing area residents to travel freely.

But the disease is highly contagious and the virus can be spread by water droplets, shoes, vehicles and other means.

"Foot-and-mouth disease is notorious for its ability to spread widely by many means especially animal movements," said Peter Roeder, an animal health expert and adviser for the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization. But given the strong steps authorities have taken, he sees only a low chance of the likelihood of the disease spreading.

The virus causes lesions inside the mouth and on hooves, sometimes resulting in lameness. Calves are much more at risk of dying than older cattle. Humans cannot get infected from eating contaminated meat, but there have been rare cases of transmission from direct contact with sick animals.

All Japanese beef exports have been suspended since April 20. Japan exported 565 tons of beef, worth $40 million (3.8 billion yen) in fiscal 2009 through March, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The ministry doesn't break down exports of premium "Wagyu" beef, which includes Kobe and Miyazaki brands.

The culling of cattle will reduce the supply of meat available and drive up prices, farmers and experts say.

And even if the disease is contained, the killing of so many cows is a heavy blow to the market for "Wagyu" beef market since it means many farmers in Kyushu will have to restart the selective breeding process that has been key to producing the high-quality meat.

"Usually it takes two to three years to raise and fatten cattle before slaughtering," said Yasuhiro Nakashima, a professor of food and agricultural economics at Tokyo University. The breeding process to replace lost stud bulls could take much longer, experts say.

About 1,300 Miyazaki cattle are sold to the Kobe region every year, according to the agriculture ministry. But this year, sales were postponed or canceled because of the outbreak.

Restaurant owners who specialize in Kobe beef say their products are untainted, but they worry consumers still will avoid the meat. Past scares about mad cow disease and bird flu have hit their businesses, says Kazuho Miyasu, 48, owner of the Kobe steak house Miyasu.

"It usually takes four to five years to get our customers back after so much damage," said Miyasu.

The origin of the virus that causes the disease is still unknown, but prefectural officials say it is similar to a strain found in South Korea.

The owner of Kobe's Teppankyaki Onishi, Masakazu Onishi, said he agrees slaughtering cattle suspected of having the disease is the only way to eradicate it, but he sympathized with farmers.

"Some farmers care for their calves like their own family members," said Onishi. "I would be devastated if I were them."

Back on Awaji Island, Tanimoto says the disease — if it does spread — could destroy years of hard work.

"In the past 20 years I have raised four generations of cattle," said Tanimoto. "Foot-and-mouth disease would wipe out my business."



In this June 17, 2010 photo, veterinarians examine a cow at a farm in Ebino amid an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in the southern prefecture of Miyazaki. Cattle farmers in central Japan near the city of Kobe have been worried that the outbreak in Miyazaki, another key beef-raising region that often supplies calves to Kobe breeders, could spread to them as well. (AP Photo/Kyodo News)



In this June 17, 2010 photo, workers look on culled cows being loaded on a truck for disposal at a farm in Kawaminami amid an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in the southern prefecture of Miyazaki. Cattle farmers in central Japan near the city of Kobe have been worried that the outbreak in Miyazaki, another key beef-raising region that often supplies calves to Kobe breeders, could spread to them as well. (AP Photo/Kyodo News)

Action Alert: SUNY Oswego; No To New Factory Farm!!

7/14 SUNY Oswego: "Public Forum" re/by BION, proposed facility (fwd)
Sat Jul 3, 2010 5:27 pm (PDT)
Please cross post where appropriate.

Begin forwarded message:

We have just been alerted that there will be a "public forum" at SUNY
Oswego at 7pm on Wednesday, July 14th. The only speakers will be from Bion
and they claim the public will be allowed to ask questions. Reservations are
required and the link is below.

http://www.oswego.edu/news/index.php/site/news_story/bion_forum)

Bion wants to put a facility in Oswego County. If completed, the proposed
integrated and closed-loop processing project would be the largest cattle
livestock facility east of the Mississippi River. The facility would
provide an estimated 500 to 600 full-time, skilled and semi-skilled jobs for the
Oswego County regional economy.
This would be a disaster on so many levels.

It is vitally important that we all be there to ask questions of them and
shed light upon this project. There is power in numbers and a strong
showing is very important to our campaign. Bion is moving forward with their
plans and we need to continue to move forward with ours.

The lawn signs will be here July 7th and the buttons by July 12th. We are
asking for a $5 donation for a sign and a button to cover costs, if at all
possible. Please feel free to contact me at _khall3721@windstream.net_

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/ARAlertsNational/post?postID=EzpdJ8Dk3rfXSlXLItwsYmqbXd_VqPucMDTVhdtUWV-nLxsvFGVGaBNXuvwdjpGct3xtdZUDUri75R0oIt0

or
(315) 436-1039 to get yours!

Please feel free to forward this information to anyone who you feel should
be there as well.

Thank you all for your support and hard work.

Karen Hall - Citizens for Family Farms http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/ARAlertsNational/post?postID=o5f9SxGJBbqu73mrsOPETXR2911oDfbjZos9x9E6xUJodH8uc7PbVHm98r-bUGG3ktR-CmT3JKZVKP1bW-BcM2tDjex8ZA)

EASTERN AND VENEZUELAN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS - VENEZUELA: HUMANS, EQUINES

***********************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases


Date: Fri 2 Jul 2010
Source: Radio Union [in Spanish, trans. Corr.SB, edited]



The Venezuelan Medical Science Societies have reported 294 cases of
equine encephalitis, of which only 13 are in humans, of these cases 7
are Venezuelan equine encephalitis [VEE] and 6 are eastern equine
encephalitis [EEE].

They officially reported the upsurge of diseases, that were eradicated
years ago but recognizing that it is not a problem that has recently
appeared, and they say there are more cases of Venezuelan equine
encephalitis located in the state of Portuguesa, in the municipality
of Espino.

Former Minister Jose Felix Oletta stresses that equine encephalitis
and eastern equine encephalitis have been on the rebound in Venezuela,
using man as a host.

Oletta explains that there is an increase in diseases due to
circumstances such as climate change, rainfall, changes or mutations
of the virus, the rising waters, the low rate of vaccination of horses
and other circumstances. "In Venezuela we have found areas of very
high risk in some states, others intermediate [risk] and others a low
[risk]." In Zulia, Lara, Trujillo and Miranda there are disease foci.

He explained that in [epidemiological] week 14 an editorial brought
the equine encephalitis [cases]to his attention. "There was an
outbreak in horses in Bolivar state, this was indicated on 7 May
[2010] [but] we did not have confirmation [then], and we had
confirmation this Saturday [26 Jun 2010], with Alert 24, which reports
the existence of animal cases in the States of Bolivar, Aragua,
Guarico, Zulia and Portuguesa."

--
Communicated by:
HealthMap Alerts via ProMED-mail


[Presumably, all the non-human cases are in equine animals (horses,
mules and donkeys). It is inaccurate to say that that EEE and VEE
viruses were eradicated in Venezuela. They are doubtless endemic there
but without causing disease in humans or equine animals, they go
undetected without monitoring mosquitoes and birds (for EEE virus) or
rodents (for VEE virus). If these equine cases are confirmed as VEE
virus infections, they are probably caused by VEE virus subtype IAB or
IC.

There is published evidence that 2 base pair mutations can change
enzootic VEE virus subtype ID into the epidemic IC subtype. It is
unfortunate that the equine animals were not vaccinated against this
virus. When outbreaks are infrequent, owners tend to neglect
vaccination [necessary to] maintain herd immunity. Over the past 80
years, there have been occasional massive equine outbreaks of VEE
virus in Venezuela. Case fatality can approach 80 percent in these
animals and survivors may have significant neurological sequelae.
There have been many human cases associated with these outbreaks.

ProMED awaits confirmation of the virus and subtype of the equine
cases and reports of any additional human cases with interest.

A map of Venezuelan showing the states mentioned can be accessed at
. A
HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map of Venezuela can be accessed at
. - Mod.TY]

[see also:
2004
----
Eastern equine encephalitis - Venezuela (03) 20040531.1481
Eastern equine encephalitis, equine - Venezuela (02) 20040428.1182
Eastern equine encephalitis, equine - Venezuela 20040426.1163
2003
----
Venezuelan equine encephalitis, equines - Venezuela 20031013.2579
1999
----
Equine encephalitis - Colombia, Venezuela 19991020.1871]
...................jw/sb/ty/ejp/jw
*##########################################################*
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are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the
information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
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Anitbiotic Resistace from Food Animal Production

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=6191894n&tag=api

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Animals : The TRUTH

http://www.saveantibiotics.org/ourwork.html

CWD in Wisconsin Wild Deer Studied

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/10/051023121637.htm

ANTHRAX, BISON - CANADA: (NORTHWEST TERRITORIES)

************************************************
A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases


Date: 1 Jul 2010
Source: CBC News [edited]



Bison anthrax outbreak in N.W.T. lowlands
-----------------------------------------
Government wildlife teams in the Northwest Territories are working to
control an anthrax outbreak about 80 kilometres [50 miles] southeast
of Fort Resolution, south of Yellowknife. A total of 7 bison carcasses
in the Slave River Lowlands have tested positive for the disease. They
were spotted within an 8-kilometre [5-mile] area during a 23 Jun 2010
surveillance flight. There are about 600 bison in the area, according
to officials.

"We'll have regular surveillance flights to look for any additional
cases. The trick is to find carcasses as quickly as possible," Brett
Elkin, a disease specialist with the N.W.T. Environment and Natural
Resources Department told CBC News. "They're immediately disinfected
with a chemical disinfectant called formaldehyde ... it keeps other
animals from scavenging, and it cleans off the surface and kills all
the spores. And then a 2nd crew will come in later and burn each
carcass, basically incinerate it so there's nothing left."

Elkin said disposal crews wear protective suits and are careful not to
touch the carcasses.

No humans have contracted anthrax in the Northwest Territories, and
the area in question has been closed to the public. The area is only
accessible by boat and ATV [all terrain vehicle] at this time of year,
the department said.

A total of 14 other anthrax outbreaks in the Slave River Lowlands and
Wood Buffalo National Park were reported between 1962 and 2007.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail


[This report says it all. In fact outbreaks of anthrax in wood bison
can be found for this specific area in the Hudson Bay annual reports
of Fort Chipewyan of around 1840. They have regular weekly
surveillance flights of known anthrax foci within and adjoining the
Wood Bison National Park (WBNP). They are so skilled and expert that
the 'Hot Shot' teams can burn up to 3 adult bison in one day. No mean
feat as the bulls -- the usual victims -- weight around 2500 pounds.

The formaldehyde actively discourages the wolves, foxes, and bears
from scavenging the bison carcasses. This is very important as
otherwise an area of some 100 to 250 square miles can get
significantly contaminated. Plus this rapid burn policy is reducing
the incidence in and around the WBNP. - Mod.MHJ]

[see also:
2007
----
Anthrax, bison - Canada (AB) 20070913.3030
Anthrax, bison - CANADA (NWT) (03) 20070816.2686
Anthrax, bison - Canada (NWT) (02) 20070731.2466
Anthrax, bison - Canada (NT) 20070727.2428
2006
----
Anthrax, bison - Canada (NT)(02) 20060711.1913
Anthrax, bison - Canada (NWT) 20060704.1836
2001
----
Anthrax, bison - Canada (Alberta) (05) 20010829.2051
Anthrax, bison - Canada (Alberta) (04) 20010804.1536
Anthrax, bison - Canada (Alberta) (03) 20010719.1403
Anthrax, bison - Canada (Alberta) (02) 20010713.1361
Anthrax, bison - Canada (Alberta): confirmed 20010708.1322
Anthrax, suspected, bison - Canada (Alberta) 20010703.1276
2000
----
Anthrax, wood bison - Canada (Alberta) (03) 20000813.1350
Anthrax, wood bison - Canada (Alberta) (02) 20000731.1268
Anthrax, wood bison - Canada (Alberta) 20000720.1197]
...................sb/mhj/ejp/jw
*##########################################################*
************************************************************
ProMED-mail makes every effort to verify the reports that
are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the
information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
************************************************************
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Anthrax Killing Livestock in TX

ANTHRAX, LIVESTOCK, WILDLIFE - USA: (TEXAS)
*******************************************
A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases


Date: Fri 2 Jul 2010
From: Martin Hugh-Jones [edited]


Anthrax deaths in Uvalde County, Texas
--------------------------------------
Last Fri 25 Jun 2010, I was reliably informed that the Texas A & M
veterinary diagnostic laboratory, College Station, had confirmed a
case of anthrax in a white tailed deer in Uvalde County. On Tue 29 Jun
2010 I was able to confirm this with the veterinarian who had examined
a freshly dead deer from a ranch in the northern part of that county,
and submitted its spleen to College Station on 22 Jun 2010. Apparently
some 10 or so deer had died earlier on this deer ranch near Rock
Springs. This is a freshly purchased ranch and the new owners had put
up an 8 ft [2.5 m] fence around it. When they did this the new fence
enclosed an uncertain number of wild white tails. The anthrax deaths
were seen in this group. The ranch has expensive penned breeding deer
but they had been vaccinated and suffered no losses.

So I checked with my various rancher friends in that part of the
Edwards Plateau, and apart from 2 dead deer found on a ranch near the
Devil's River, no one has seen anything untoward. However a very
informed contact in Rock Springs told me the following about recent
multiple deaths in that area; "These old ranchers have seen many
animals die from anthrax over the years. You can't get them to send
anything in. I can't confirm these cases, but I am 99 percent sure
they died from anthrax. We have had about 10 horses, 15 bulls and
cows, 35 deer, 3 sheep, and 1 aoudad [imported N. African wild sheep
-- see

reported. The old timers say if it would rain it will stop. They say
we need to get 2 inches or so. It is trying to rain this morning so
maybe we will get some." He had lost one bison. Since then they have
been visited by the [hurricane] Alex rains. The total number of
affected ranches at this time around Rock Springs is unclear.

The underlying reason the ranchers would want rain is that it washes
the infected blow-fly vomit off the browse so it is then safe for the
deer to eat. After feeding on an anthrax carcass blow flies fly to a
nearby shrub to vomit up their blood meals to get rid of the excess
fluid. They then eat and digest the red blood cells. This leaves a
residue on the leaves; the anthrax vegetative cells sporulate; and the
spores lurk there until eaten by a passing deer or the leaf falls off,
or the spores are washed off by rain. Thus the spores can be on the
scrub leaves for weeks posing a constant threat until they are removed.

Apparently because there has been only one laboratory confirmed case
the Texas Animal Health Commission is not issuing a report warning the
area cattlemen to get their animals vaccinated if they hadn't done it
earlier in the year.

As and when I get updates on this situation, they will be posted.

--
Martin Hugh-Jones
ProMED-mail Animal Disease Moderator


[The state of Texas can be located on the HealthMap/ProMED-mail
interactive map at
.
Uvalde County can be located on the map at
.
Edwards Plateau and Rock Springs can be seen on the map at
. -
Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]

[see also:
2009
----
Anthrax, bovine - USA (03): (TX), cervid 20090817.2910
2007
----
Anthrax, bovine, wildlife - USA (TX) 20070713.2246
2006
----
Anthrax, deer - USA (TX)(03): bull affected 20060726.2057
Anthrax, deer - USA (TX)(02): susp. 20060720.1994
Anthrax, deer - USA (TX) 20060710.1891
2005
----
Anthrax, cervidae, livestock - USA (TX) 20050709.1944
2004
----
Anthrax, bovine, deer - USA (TX) (02) 20040829.2415
Anthrax, bovine, deer - USA (TX) 20040812.2231
2003
----
Anthrax, deer - USA (Texas) 20030808.1956
2002
----
Anthrax, deer - USA (Texas) 20020915.5322
2001
----
Anthrax, deer, bison, human - USA (Texas) (04) 20010715.1371
Anthrax, deer, bison, human - USA (Texas) (03) 20010712.1344
Anthrax, deer, bison, human - USA (Texas) (02) 20010707.1306
Anthrax, deer, bison, human - USA (Texas) 20010703.1278
Anthrax, deer - USA (Texas) 20010622.1184]
........................................mhj/mj/jw
*##########################################################*
************************************************************
ProMED-mail makes every effort to verify the reports that
are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the
information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
************************************************************
Donate to ProMED-mail. Details available at:

************************************************************
Visit ProMED-mail's web site at .
Send all items for posting to: promed@promedmail.org (NOT to
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