Mad Cows and Martyred Horses

40,000 lbs. Beef Recalled, Intended for School Lunches

2011-09-25T11:01:00.000-04:00

http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/24/health/georgia-beef-recall/index.html?hpt=he_c2

The China Study

2011-07-14T13:38:00.002-04:00

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=the+china+study&view=detail&mid=7EC910EDDA69FCBA65E67EC910EDDA69FCBA65E6&first=0&FORM=LKVR1

Milk: a Deadly Poison

2011-07-14T13:33:00.002-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYpafipJyDE&feature=share

tHE mAD cOWBOY

2011-06-29T04:50:00.000-04:00

I am a fourth-generation dairy farmer and cattle rancher. I grew up on a dairy farm in Montana, and I ran a feedlot operation there for twenty years. I know firsthand how cattle are raised and how meat is produced in this country.

Today I am president of Earth Save International, an organization promoting organic farming and the vegetarian diet.

Sure, I used to enjoy my steaks as much as the next guy. But if you knew what I know about what goes into them and what they can to do you, you’d probably be a vegetarian like me. And, believe it or not, as a pure vegetarian now who consumes no animal products at all, I can tell you these days I enjoy eating more than ever.

If you’re a meat-eater in America, you have a right to know that you have something in common with most of the cows you’ve eaten. They’ve eaten meat, too;

http://naturalnews.tv/v.asp?v=3BF0840B21A40DE3E8BAA6BD31C399AE

The Europa (EU) Food Safety Comission & CodexAlimentarius

2011-06-19T12:51:00.003-04:00

http://ec.europa.eu/food/committees/advisory/index_en.htm

and this; http://www.codexalimentarius.net/web/index_en.jsp

DO NOT believe the HYPE that this entity was created to protect consumers,...like anyother governmental aministrative org,..the USDA, FDA, .,...it was created to protect the producers.

4 New Bovine Diseases Emerging in Australia

2011-05-22T19:36:00.002-04:00

http://meatsubs.blogspot.com/2011/05/bovine-diseases-australia-emerging.html

Update: S. Korean Beef Concerns

2011-05-21T08:32:00.002-04:00

http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/opinon/2011/05/137_87356.html

Highly Contageous Horse Virus puts Washington State on Alert

2011-05-19T06:35:00.002-04:00

http://www.seattlepi.com/local/sound/article/Highly-contagious-horse-virus-puts-Kitsap-1385378.php

Meat Recall; California

2011-05-13T23:15:00.002-04:00

California-based Rose & Shore Meat Co. is recalling 15,900 pounds of ready-to-eat deli meat products due to potential Listeria contamination. The products being recalled include:

-40 to 50 pound boxes containing packages of “OLYMPIC GOLD BEEF PASTRAMI” with the lot number “20911” and a “04-05-11” pack date on the outside of each box. Each package has the lot number “20911” and lot code “10951.”

-40 to 50 pound boxes containing packages of “ROSE AND SHORE N.Y. STYLE PASTRAMI” with the lot number “20911” and a “04-05-11” pack date as well as a “29 N.Y.” case code on the outside of each box. Each package has the lot number “20911” and lot code “10951.”

-9 to 13 pound boxes containing “COOKED ANGUS ROAST BEEF” with lot number “20941” and a use by date of “05-17-11.” Each package has the lot number “20941” and a use by date of “05-17-11.”

-24 to 30 pound boxes containing packages of “TOGO’S PASTRAMI” with the lot number “20911”, a “04-05-11” pack date and a use by date of “05-23-11” on the outside of each box. Each package has the lot number “20911” and a use by date of “05-23-11.”

The products were distributed to food service establishments in Nevada, Arizona, California, Oregon and Washington.

Consumers with questions about the recall should call (323) 826-2144, ext. 110 or 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854).

BOVINE TUBERCULOSIS, BOVINE - UK (02): ENGLAND

2011-04-30T21:45:00.003-04:00

Open the link to see a report that confirms that Bovine TB is a potential bioweapon and see chart on pg. 242 that says the disease ORIGINATED from domestic cattle. This is important because the public land ranchers in the U.S. are blaming WILDLIFE for the outbreaks in their cattle, and are using it for an excuse to exterminate our wild bison herds; http://www.nwhc.usgs.gov/publications/disease_emergence/Chapter6.pdf
(Google "Buffalo Field Campaign")
**********************************************

A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the

International Society for Infectious Diseases

Date: Wed 27 Apr 2011

Source: Farmers Weekly Interactive [edited]

Officials mystified by Cumbria TB case

--------------------------------------

Cumbria is facing its 1st large-scale outbreak of bovine tuberculosis

(TB) on a dairy farm near Penrith where 64 animals have been

slaughtered. The outbreak has already triggered calls for a

county-wide TB test of all dairy cows to be considered.

The herd, which is in a 4-year testing programme, had been tested

"clear" 18 months ago, according to the Animal Health and Veterinary

Laboratories Agency. But as post-mortem examinations were being

carried out on the slaughtered cattle this week, vets expressed

concern over the length of time the disease may have been present on

the farm.

Veterinary investigations will concentrate on the source of the

outbreak which has occurred on a farm running a "closed" herd and

where there are reported to have been no movements of cattle on or off

the holding and no indication that wildlife in the area has become

infected.

Cumbria has been virtually free of bovine TB apart from a "pocket" of

problems in a small area in the south-west corner of the county --

more than 50 miles from the current outbreak.

DEFRA vets said it would be 3 weeks before the full test results on

the slaughtered cattle were available. Contiguous testing of cattle on

neighbouring farms was already under way.

"The herd has been placed under movement restrictions, and a number

of animals have been removed for slaughter after reacting to the skin

test. Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency staff are

working to determine the source of the infection and TB testing of

neighbouring holdings is under way," said the official DEFRA

statement.

Leading dairy cattle auctioneer Edward Brown of Harrison and

Hetherington, said the outbreak was "deeply worrying" for Cumbria's

dairy farmers. "Few cattle come into the county and when dairy farmers

do buy cattle they are extremely cautious about where they come

from."

Cumbria milk producer Russell Bowman, chairman of the North West

dairy board, said it was important that vets located the source of the

outbreak as quickly as possible. "We're told it's a closed herd so

that makes the situation even more worrying. We certainly don't want

to discover that we've got TB in our wildlife here in Cumbria. At this

stage we must hope animal health staff can contain the outbreak and

can discover how the farm became infected," said Mr Bowman of

Armathwaite, near Carlisle.

[Byline: Jeremy Hunt]

--

Communicated by:

ProMED-mail

[According to a later (28 Apr 2011] BBC news bulletin, the disease

was found on a farm near Penrith, which has not been identified.

The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) said it

did not know the source but the results of tests should be known next

week.

It said bovine TB was relatively rare in Cumbria and it was working

to ensure that remained the case. - Mod.AS

The interactive HealthMap/ProMED map for Cumbria is available at:

- CopyEd.EJP]

[see also:

Bovine tuberculosis - UK: (Wales) badger control 20110328.0969

2010

----

Bovine tuberculosis - UK (04): new control program 20100921.3396

2002

----

Tuberculosis, cattle - UK 20020221.3599

2001

----

Foot & mouth disease - UK (25) 20010318.0548]

.................................................sb/arn/ejp/jw

*##########################################################*

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responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any

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or archived material.

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Half of Grocery Meat contains Monsanto Drug Resistant Bacteria From Modi...

2011-04-27T20:45:00.000-04:00

Mad Cow Disease Traced to Saudi Arabia

2011-04-18T10:33:00.000-04:00

April 15th, 2011 by Rasheed

April 2011: Canadian health officials have confirmed the country’s second-ever case of variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, the rare human form of the so-called “mad cow disease” usually caused by eating infected beef. The head of the federal agency that monitors the disease states the man, now an Ontario resident, is believed to have been infected in Saudi Arabia.

Information released by Health Canada in both Arabic and English states the man began experiencing symptoms just prior to immigrating to Canada from Saudi Arabia in 2010.

Outbreaks of the human form of the disease also led to changes in blood donor regulations in a number of countries. The discovery of a new case of variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob last month prompted an almost immediate change in Canada’s blood donation policies, which now restrict anyone who was in Saudi Arabia for six months or longer in the period from 1980 to1996 from giving blood. The restriction previously related only to the United Kingdom, France and Western Europe.

The disease first emerged in humans in the mid-1990s and peaked in 2000 in the U.K, where it has been the most prevalent. According to the World Health Organization, the human form of mad cow disease is an aggressive condition that begins with psychiatric symptoms and dementia, and progresses quickly to complete lack of physical control, leaving the person unable to move or speak. The WHO states the disease leaves “daisy-like” holes in the brain.

Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is the human form of bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or BSE. It is most commonly caused by eating meat from BSE-infected cows, though there have also been documented transmissions through blood transfusions and the potential for infection through medical and dental tools.

Dr. Michael Coulthart, director of the Canadian Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease surveillance system at the national microbiology lab in Winnipeg, Canada stated, “It’s one of those cases where long-term vigilance is going to be required to definitively deal with the issue. Every case is potentially significant, and you don’t want to miss any. Any individual case can have large implications, potentially, and you want to know as much as you can about the origins of each case that does occur, whenever it occurs. So, that’s one reason to stay vigilant.”

Because of the disease’s long incubation period, Coulthart states there are also concerns about the “carrier effect,” where people could have the disease for years, even decades without knowing it, then pass it on through blood transfusions or medical or dental tools. In that scenario, he states there could be a resurgence in the human form of the disease in the future, particularly given that the prion agent of the disease is extremely resistant to normal methods of decontamination and disinfection.

One pathologist who studied the disease in the 1990s described it at the time as being “like something out of the X-Files, the indestructible thing from outer space.” Despite a relatively small number of human deaths, the emergence of mad cow disease in animals and humans in the 1980s and 1990s had a huge impact around the world, prompting the large scale culling of animal herds, leading to massive changes in animal feeding guidelines, and devastating cattle operations and trade globally.

=============================

Un-Known Disease Plaguing Equines in Europe

2011-04-11T02:01:00.001-04:00

ATYPICAL MYOPATHY, EQUINE - EUROPE: POSSIBLE CAUSE **************************************************
A ProMED-mail post ProMED-mail is a program of the International Society for Infectious Diseases

Date: 8 Apr 2011 Source: Horsetalk.co.nz [edited]

Researchers in Switzerland have their eye on clostridial toxins as the possible cause of equine atypical myopathy (EAM), a seasonal, pasture-associated muscle disorder. The disorder presents a particular challenge to European veterinarians. It is characterised by a generalised complete degeneration of muscle fibres, which leads to sudden death due to collapse of the cardio-respiratory system in over 90 per cent of the cases. Writing in the latest Gluck Equine Disease Quarterly, Dr Lucia Unger and Professor Vinzenz Gerber, from the Equine Clinic at the University of Berne, said the economic impact is often devastating. Affected horses can either die quickly or show profuse sweating, muscle twitching, weakness, abnormal urine colour, reluctance to move, recumbency and difficulty in breathing. Death can follow after 12 to 72 hours. Since the cause is unknown, no effective protective treatment exists, and affected horses can only be treated for their clinical signs. Large outbreaks have been reported since the 1980s in parts of Europe including the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Denmark. In 2010, 224 new cases were reported to the Atypical Myopathy Alert Group, managed by Dominique Votion at the University of Liege in Belgium. A very similar if not the same disease has also been observed in the United States and is called seasonal pasture myopathy. From 1998 to 2005, 14 cases were described in Minnesota. White snakeroot toxicosis (_Ageratina_ spp., formerly _Eupatorium_ spp., a perennial herb) was ruled out as a potential cause, since its toxin (tremetone) was not found in liver or urine samples of affected horses. Seasonal pasture myopathy is thought to be caused by the same agent as the European equivalent. Environmental factors such as regular access to pasture and certain weather conditions seem to influence the incidence of the disease, which occurs seasonally, mostly in autumn with lesser peaks in springtime and sporadic cases in winter. Young horses kept full time at pasture without any food complementation are most frequently affected, highlighting the importance of contact with grass. Further risk factors are adjacent streams and trees, dead leaves and branches in the pastures, and wet, windy, unpleasantly chilly weather conditions (but not severe frost). Removing manure from pastures, providing clean drinking water and salt blocks, and bringing horses in from pasture during rough weather are advised. Causes that have been discussed and investigated include ionophores, mycotoxins and phytotoxins. Recently, the development of the disease was associated with ingesting maple leaves (_Acer pseudoplantanus_) covered with European tar spot (_Rhytisma acerinum_). Stress and metabolic imbalances within horses may be factors that predispose horses to developing the disease, the authors noted. Over the last decades, the incidence of the disease, however variable from year to year, has increased, and demand is growing for the cause to be identified and effective treatments developed and preventive measures identified. Identification of the causative agent is of paramount importance, Unger and Gerber said. "Consequently, our current research at the Equine Clinic and the Institute of Bacteriology of the Vetsuisse-Faculty of the University of Berne is focused on clostridial toxins, specifically the lethal toxin of _Clostridium sordellii_," they wrote. "This large clostridial cytoxin is able to induce severe muscular damage when injected intramuscularly into mice. Initially, we detected _Clostridium sordellii_ DNA in faeces and intestinal contents of horses suffering from EAM but not in corresponding samples from healthy pasture mates. However, this finding was not reliably reproducible." Subsequently, they found damage in muscle samples of affected horses, using light and electron transmission microscopy, to be very similar to _Clostridium sordellii_ lethal toxin-induced structural damage in the cytoskeleton of different cell lines. "Most importantly, we were recently able to show that the lethal toxin of _Clostridium sordellii_ is present in skeletal muscles of horses with EAM. Myofibers of affected horses reacted not only with an antibody specific for the lethal toxin, which failed to bind to the myofibers of either healthy horses or those with other myopathies, but also [sic] with sera from other EAM-affected horses." Previously, _C. sordellii_-derived lethal toxin has been shown to cause gas gangrene syndrome in cattle and sheep and toxic shock syndrome in humans. Its presence in the myofibers of horses suffering from EAM suggests it may play a role as a trigger or even as the lethal factor in the cause of this disease. Anecdotal evidence and the pair's most recent body-fluid data suggest that naturally EAM-affected horses neither mount a protective immune response nor show a substantial increase in anti-lethal toxin antibodies, respectively. "Our findings may nonetheless suggest a rational approach for the development of a protective vaccine," they said. -- Communicated by: ProMED-mail [While this research indeed appears promising, let us hope the outcome is reproducible. Such results may well lead to research that could produce a cure or prevention. - Mod.TG] [Photos of an affected horse may be seen in the source link. Photo of maple leaves (_Acer pseudoplantanus_) covered with European tar spot (_Rhytisma acerinum_): - Mod.JW] [see also: 2010 ---- Atypical myopathy, equine - UK: (Cornwall) 20101106.4026 Atypical myopathy, equine - EU 20100509.1518 2009 ---- Atypical myopathy, equine - UK: (England) 20091121.4007] .................................................sb/tg/msp/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 an individual moderator). If you do not give your full name name and affiliation, it may not be posted. You may unsub- scribe at . For assistance from a human being, send mail to: . ############################################################ ############################################################

NITRITE, MILK, FATALITIES - CHINA: (GANSU)

2011-04-09T12:41:00.000-04:00

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

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

Date: Fri 8 Apr 2011
Source: The Guardian, Reuters report [edited]

Milk poisoning kills children in China
--------------------------------------
Xinhua news agency has reported in the latest food safety scandal to
hit the [Chinese] dairy industry, that 3 children have died & 35
people have become ill from drinking nitrite-tainted milk in China's
north-western Gansu province.

Most of the 35 were children under 14, now being treated at 2
hospitals in Pingliang city, Xinhua said, citing the local government
and health bureau.

"An initial investigation shows all the patients were poisoned by
nitrite after drinking bulk milk provided by 2 local dairy farms,"
Xinhua said.

Nitrite is used for curing meat.

The 2 farms were sealed off and their managers were being
investigated, Xinhua said.

China's food sector has been beset by poisonings and toxin scandals
that have shaken consumer confidence, and dairy production has been at
the heart of those worries.

China's quality inspection agency last week [week of 28 Mar 2011]
ordered nearly half the country's dairy firms to halt production as
part of a campaign to clean up the industry.

In 2008, at least 6 children died and nearly 300 000 fell ill from
powdered milk laced with melamine, an industrial chemical added to
low-quality or diluted milk to fool inspectors by giving misleadingly
high readings for protein levels.

Earlier this year [2011], Chinese quality authorities sought to calm
renewed public alarm after reports that some manufacturers had
illegally added a leather protein powder to dairy products to cheat
protein-content checks.

Zhao Lianhai, who organised a website for parents of children who
became ill from tainted milk after his own son became sick, was jailed
for 2.5 years last November [2010] after being convicted of "inciting
social disorder."

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[Sodium nitrite has on a number of occasions been mistaken for table
salt. However, to have it in milk is difficult for me to understand.
While it has been used in the meat industry, its use or purpose in the
milk industry sounds like adulteration of the product.

Clinical signs of ingestion may include gastroenteritis, abdominal
pains, dizziness, bloody diarrhea, convulsions and collapse. Purging
(vomiting) and diuresis are expected. If the victim receives small,
repeated doses there may be headache and mental impairment. Generally
in the case of mistaking sodium nitrite for sodium chloride, the dose
may be larger for large meals typical of celebrations.

Sodium nitrite has been used in curing meat for centuries. Nitrite is
added to certain foods to prevent the growth of the spore-forming
bacterium _Clostridium botulinum_, whose toxin causes botulism,
leading to paralysis and, potentially, death. The word botulinum comes
from the Latin word 'botulus', meaning sausage, which was responsible
for many deaths centuries ago before curing with nitrite was used. In
addition to serving as an antimicrobial, nitrite is used to produce
the characteristic flavor, texture, and pink color of cured meats.

At significant blood levels, the nitrite's oxidation of the iron in
hemoglobin from the ferrous to the ferric state yields methemoglobin,
which does not carry oxygen and imparts a brown hue to the blood.
Symptoms of methemoglobinemia include headaches, fatigue, tachycardia
(fast heart rate), weakness, and dizziness. As oxygenation of tissues
decreases to the point of becoming truly inadequate, dyspnea
(shortness of breath), acidosis, arrhythmias (irregular heart
rhythms), coma, convulsions and even death may occur. - Mod.TG]

[Maps of China can be seen at
and . - Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]

[see also:
2010
----
Food poisoning - Russia (PE): sodium nitrite 20100910.3261
Melamine contamination, milk products - China (07) 20101126.4266
2008
----
Toxic ingestion, sodium nitrite - China (Guangdong) 20080225.0754
Infant kidney stones - China (02): Gansu, milk, melamine
20080912.2856
2006
----
Toxic ingestion, sodium nitrite - China (Hainan) 20060220.0552
2003
----
Food poisoning, milk, children - China (Liaoning) (02) 20030420.0966

2002
----
Toxic ingestion, sodium nitrite - USA (New York) (02) 20020523.4301]
.................................................sb/tg/mj/jw
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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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US Succeeds in Working 'Round Meat-Trade Barriers

2011-04-08T23:34:00.000-04:00

http://www.datamyne.com/blog/?tag=mad-cow-disease

EQUINE HERPESVIRUS, EQUINE – USA: (NEW YORK) CORNELL UNIVERSITY

2011-04-02T20:13:00.000-04:00

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

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

Date: 1 Apr 2011
Source: Cornell University [edited]

Equine Hospital: Current Operating Status and FAQs
--------------------------------------------------
Current Operating Status
------------------------
We are currently accepting only emergency cases and those that would
be placed in our isolation facility. In cooperation with the State
Veterinarian, the Cornell University Hospital for Animals' equine
barns are under voluntary quarantine status, with restricted access
and biosecurity protocols in place. This is in response to a confirmed
case of equine herpes virus, a virus that routinely circulates in the
general horse population. Movement of animals between the equine barns
and other Cornell facilities is not permitted.

The diagnosis of equine herpes virus does not impact the Companion
Animal or Farm Animal Hospital. These hospitals remain open and
operating under normal conditions, as equine herpes virus does not
affect dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, or birds. Alpacas and
llamas might be affected and therefore we are also restricting
admission of those species. As equine herpes virus is not a zoonotic
agent, people are not at risk for contracting the virus.

We believe there is a low risk of exposure, but we are taking every
precaution. We hope the following information will be helpful to horse
owners and to veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for horse owners
--------------------------------------------------
Q. Why has the equine hospital placed itself under quarantine?
A. The voluntary quarantine is in response to a confirmed case of
equine herpes virus. We believe there is a low risk of exposure, but
out of an abundance of caution, the Equine Hospital barns are under
quarantine status.

Q. Have the Farm Animal Hospital or Companion Animal Hospital been
affected?
A. No. They are operating at normal status. The equine herpes virus
does not affect dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, goats, or pigs, birds.
Alpacas and llamas might be affected and therefore we are also
restricting admission of those species.

Q. My horse has been at Cornell. How will I know if I need to worry?

A. Horses that were discharged from the Cornell Equine Hospital prior
to 18 Mar 2011 were not exposed to known cases in our hospital. We are
presently contacting horse owners whose horses could possibly have
been exposed to known equine herpes virus. We have contacted all
referring veterinarians who referred horses to our facility during
this time period. This virus also routinely circulates in the general
horse population.

Q. Is there an outbreak?
A. No, it is not an outbreak.

Q. Where can I get more information about equine herpes virus?
A.

FAQs for for veterinarians
--------------------------
Q. Should I isolate a horse that has been at Cornell?
A. It is always recommended that horses returning from veterinary
hospitals be isolated when possible. If horses can be isolated and
have not yet been, isolation is recommended.

Q. How often should I temp?
A. Twice a day for 10 days; remember to keep good records.

Q. Should I vaccinate the horses?
A. If there is a high risk, you should not vaccinate, but should
monitor temperatures. With temperatures of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or
greater, PCR of the nasal passages area could be done.

Q. If I want to culture them, how should I do that?
A. Culturing for viruses is a good means for diagnosis, but PCR is
much quicker and sensitive in this case. PCR done on a nasal swab
would be the recommended test.

Q. What is the best test?
A. PCR done on a nasal swab is the recommended test.

Q. What is the best sample?
A. Nasal swab provides better results for determining shedding of the
virus. EDTA blood is also a good source for PCR and viral isolation,
but the optimum sample is always nasal swabs.

Q. How should I take a nasal sample for PCR?
A. A synthetic-tipped swab is preferred, but cotton is acceptable.
This can be just a routine length culturette; it does not have to be a
nasal pharyngeal swab using a broodmare endometrial culturette. It
should be used to swab the nasal passages of the horse. The sample
should be placed in viral transport media if available. If not, place
swab into a plain red-top blood tube with one to two drops of sterile
saline. Do not put large amounts of saline into tube. Ship overnight
on an ice pack to a diagnostic laboratory. Cornell performs the PCR
for equine herpes virus. Visit

Q. Where do I get information about equine herpes virus?
A. Please refer to the American Association of Equine Practitioners
(includes biosafety guidelines):

In addition, you can find information here:

--
Communicated by:
Karyn L. Bischoff

[The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine serves as a
referral hospital as well as teaching hospital. Realizing that horses
referred to the teaching hospital may require surgery or other
intensive treatments, the hospital is being extremely cautious
regarding unlikely but possible exposure to equine herpes virus.

More information on equine herpesvirus can be found in ProMED-mail
post 20091212.4227. Readers are encouraged to read it. - Mod.TG]

[see also:
2010
----
Equine herpesvirus - USA (04): (NY) 20101129.4286
Equine herpesvirus - USA (03): (NJ) 20100408.1131
Equine herpesvirus - USA (02): (NJ) susp. 20100403.1071
Equine herpesvirus - USA: (LA) 20100101.0016
2009
----
Equine herpesvirus, equine - USA: (SC) susp. 20091212.4227
Equine herpesvirus - USA (03): (FL) 20091203.4126
Equine herpesvirus - USA (02): (PA) 20090729.2663
Equine herpesvirus - USA: (OK) 20090206.0546
2008
----
Equine herpesvirus - USA (04): (KY) 20081120.3669
Equine herpesvirus - USA (03): (MD) 20081115.3614
Equine herpesvirus - USA (02): (KY) 20080410.1320
Equine herpesvirus - USA: (MD) susp. 20080124.0304]
.................................................tg/ejp/mpp
*##########################################################*
************************************************************
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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CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE, CERVID - USA (08): (KANSAS)

2011-04-01T10:21:00.001-04:00

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

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

Date: Thu 31 Mar 2011
Source: Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) [edited]

On 2 Mar 2011, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP)
announced that 10 deer from northwestern Kansas had tested positive
for chronic wasting disease [CWD], the same number as last year [2010]
although 2 of those deer were found in counties farther east than any
previous confirmations. These were animals taken by hunters in the
2010 hunting seasons.

6 confirmed cases of CWD deer were taken by hunters in Decatur County
and one each from Graham, Norton, Sherman, and Smith counties. The
Norton, Sherman, and Smith cases were firsts for those counties. The
cases included 9 white-tailed and one mule deer. This season's [2010]
testing results brings the total number of confirmed CWD cases in
Kansas to 40 since testing began in 1996. In total, 2503 animals were
tested for CWD for the 2010 deer seasons. Although most testing is
finished for the year, KDWP will continue testing some vehicle-killed
and sick or suspect-looking deer, as well as deer taken with
depredation permits, through 31 Jul [2011]. If US Department of
Agriculture funding is available, a new surveillance period will begin
[1 Aug 2011].

Annual testing is part of ongoing effort by KDWP to monitor the
prevalence and spread of CWD. The fatal disease was first detected in
a wild deer taken in Cheyenne County in 2005. 3 infected deer were
taken in Decatur County in 2007 and 10 tested positive in 2008, all in
northwest Kansas.

CWD is a member of the group of diseases called transmissible
spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Other diseases in this group
include scrapie in sheep and goats, bovine spongiform encephalopathy
(BSE or mad cow disease) in cattle, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in
people. CWD is a progressive, fatal disease that results in small
holes developing in the brain, giving it a sponge-like appearance
under the microscope. An animal may carry the disease without outward
indication (only 2 of the 40 positive animals showed signs) but in the
later stages, signs may include behavioral changes such as decreased
interactions with other animals, listlessness, lowering of the head,
weight loss, repetitive walking in set patterns, and a lack of
response to humans. Anyone who discovers a sick or suspect deer should
contact the nearest KDWP office.

"It must be noted that many signs of CWD are indicative of other
diseases," says KDWP wildlife disease coordinator Shane Hesting.
"Thus, a sick deer may or may not be infected with CWD. CWD is a
serious deer disease but is still a rare disease in Kansas. There is
no vaccine or other biological method that prevents the spread of CWD.
However, there is no evidence that CWD poses a risk to humans or
livestock in the natural environment."

Still, precautions should be taken. Hunters are advised not to eat
meat from animals known to be infected, and common sense precautions
are advised when field dressing and processing meat from animals taken
in areas where CWD is found. More information on CWD can be found on
KDWP's website at or at the Chronic
Wasting Disease Alliance website at .

--
Communicated by:
Terry S Singeltary Sr

[The finding of infected 2 deer in counties further east represents a
slight expansion of the disease. While the actual number of positive
deer remains the same as the previous level, it may provide insight to
know how many years it has remained at this level without an expansion
of territory. - Mod.TG]

[The state of Kansas can be located on the HealthMap/ProMED-mail
interactive map at . A Kansas county map
can be seen at
. -
Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]

[see also:
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (02): (KS) 20110107.0084
2010
----
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (07): (KS) 20100313.0814
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (06a): (KS) 20100312.0801
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (05): (KS) 20100311.0790
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (04): (KS) 20100306.0741
2008
----
Chronic wasting disease, cervids - USA: (KS) 20080119.0247
2006
----
Chronic wasting disease, cervids - USA (KS) 20060124.0237]
.................................................tg/mj/mpp
*##########################################################*
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and its associated service providers shall not be held
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or archived material.
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Audit Chides USDA for Approving Tainted Eggs

2011-03-30T01:56:00.000-04:00

http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2011/03/inspector-general-tells-how-government-does-not-work/

As U.S Gov lies many venison eaters will die from CWD/Mad Deer Disease (...

2011-03-18T15:17:00.000-04:00

BRUCELLOSIS, BOVINE - USA (02): (TEXAS)

2011-03-16T22:28:00.000-04:00

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

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

Date: Mon 14 Mar 2011
Source: KRGV [edited]

Disease forces government to slaughter rancher's cattle
-------------------------------------------------------
A Starr County rancher is without his herd of cattle. The government
ordered them sold and slaughtered to keep a disease from spreading to
other cattle or people.

Of the 38 head of cattle, 8 tested positive for bovine brucellosis.
It's a potentially deadly disease that took the government about 80
years to get rid of. It came back. This time, they weren't taking any chances.

Silence fills the air on this Starr County ranch. The corrals sit
empty, no bulls, cows, or calves. All of the rancher's livestock are
gone, slaughtered by order of the Texas Animal Health Commission.

"All the cattle, even the ones that tested negative. The explanation
they gave me is that since they were offspring from the other cattle
and the bull, they had to destroy all of them," said the Starr County rancher.

The state sent a letter to the rancher after part of their herd was
tested for the disease in January [2011]. Veterinarians claimed
several of the cows were infected with bovine brucellosis. It's the
1st confirmed case in more than 5 years.

The rare bacterial infection causes cows to abort their fetus. It's a
meat livestock producer's nightmare.

Veterinarian Jack Valerius says brucellosis spreads through birth
fluids and milk.

"We just don't want this to be present and begin to expand without
knowing where it is and getting rid of it because there's been a lot
of effort and a lot of money spent to accomplish this eradication,"
says Valerius.

It has caused heartaches and headaches for the rancher. "My email
machine is loaded with things like that. That I should be sent to
jail. That I should be sent to prison for selling infected cattle.
How did I know that these cattle were infected?" says the rancher.

The rancher expects the state will pay for his cattle soon. Right
now, that's the least of his worries. "I just hope that something
like this doesn't happen to my neighbors," says the rancher.

"Now they're in the process of testing the herds in the surrounding
areas, approximately 1 mile [1.6 km] from where these cases were
found, and so far, I understand there are no positives," says Valerius.

The rancher and his wife wanted to raise a few head of cattle. "It's
something my father had started many, many years ago, and we
continued. But it's over now, and I just don't wish that for anyone
else," he said.

The ranch is quarantined. Their hopes and the herd are gone.

Brucellosis can also cause a disease in humans known as undulant
fever. It proved to be deadly in the 1930s and '40s, but modern
medicine has made it treatable.

[Byline: Polo Sandoval]

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[Brucellosis, in cattle, water buffalo, and bison is caused almost
exclusively by _Brucella abortus_ ; however, _B. suis_ or _B.
melitensis_ are occasionally implicated in some cattle herds. _B.
suis_ does not appear to be contagious from cow to cow. Infection
spreads rapidly and causes many abortions in unvaccinated cattle. In
a herd in which the disease is endemic, an infected cow typically
aborts only once after exposure; subsequent gestations and lactations
appear normal. After exposure, cattle become bacteremic for a short
period and develop agglutinins and other antibodies; some resist
infection and a small percentage of infected cows recover. A positive
serum agglutination test usually precedes an abortion or a normal
parturition but may be delayed in about 15 per cent of cows. The
incubation period may be variable and is inversely related to stage
of gestation at time of exposure. Organisms are shed in milk and
uterine discharges, and the cow may become temporarily infertile.
Bacteria may be found in the uterus during pregnancy, uterine
involution, and infrequently, for a prolonged time, in the non-gravid
uterus. Shedding from the vagina largely disappears with the decrease
of fluids following parturition. Some infected cows that previously
aborted shed brucellae from the uterus at subsequent normal
parturitions. Organisms are shed in milk for a variable length of
time -- in most cattle for life.

Natural transmission occurs by ingestion of organisms, which are
present in large numbers in aborted fetuses, fetal membranes, and
uterine discharges. Cattle may ingest contaminated feed and water, or
lick contaminated genitals of other animals. Venereal transmission by
infected bulls to susceptible cows appears to be rare. Transmission
may occur by artificial insemination when _Brucella_ -contaminated
semen is deposited in the uterus but, reportedly, not when deposited
in the mid-cervix. Brucellae may enter the body through mucous
membranes, conjunctivae, wounds, or intact skin.

Brucellae have been recovered from fetuses and from manure that has
remained in a cool environment for more than 2 months. Exposure to
direct sunlight kills the organisms within a few hours.

Because organisms are shed in the milk, unpasteurized milk, and
cheese represent a human health concern. Many individuals believe
drinking unpasteurized milk is better for their health. Diseases that
are not killed by pasteurization represent a risk to the consumer.
Brucellosis in humans causes malaise, fever, chills, sweats,
headache, neck pain, low back pain, joint pain, muscle pain,
occasionally diarrhea, constipation, anorexia, weight loss, abdominal
pain, weakness, irritability, insomnia, and depression. Brucellosis
has been called undulating fever because of its habit of producing
fever and signs that wax and wane over an extended period of time.

Portions of this comment have been extracted from
.
- Mod.TG]

[Texas can be located on the HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map at
. Starr County in south Texas can be
located on the map at
. - Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]

[see also:
Brucellosis, cervid - USA: (MT) 20110228.0659
Brucellosis, bovine - USA: (WY) 20110212.0481
2010
----
Brucellosis, human, livestock - Russia: (SR) RFI 20101206.4363
Brucellosis, bovine - USA (04): (WY) bison 20101202.4325
Brucellosis, bovine - USA (03): (WY)20101126.4261
Brucellosis, bovine - USA (02): (MT, WY)20101107.4041
Brucellosis, bovine - USA: (WY)20101101.3956]
...................................tg/mj/dk

*##########################################################*
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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
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or archived material.
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The Horse | African Horse Sickness Outbreak: Western Cape Confirms 12 Cases

2011-03-11T14:26:00.000-05:00

The Horse African Horse Sickness Outbreak: Western Cape Confirms 12 Cases

Mad-Cow Horses in Australia?

2011-03-11T14:02:00.002-05:00

Who says horses dont get mad cow disease?

UNDIAGNOSED NEUROLOGICAL ILLNESS, EQUINE - AUSTRALIA: REQUEST FOR
INFORMATION
*****************************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post

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

Date: Wed 9 Mar 2010
Source: The Horse [edited]

Australian authorities seek information on unexplained neurologic
cases
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
The State Government of Victoria's Department of Primary Industries
(DPI) wants veterinary practitioners to submit samples from horses
displaying unexplained clinical signs of nervous system disease.

Victoria's acting chief veterinary officer, Dr Andrew Cameron, said
DPI was investigating a number of cases of unexplained neurologic
disease in horses. "Samples from veterinary practitioners
investigating any cases of nervous system disease will help our
investigation," Cameron said.

In Victoria, cases have been observed along the Murray River and in
an area of about 50 km [31 mi] around Ballarat. Unexplained neurologic
cases have also been observed recently in South Australia and New
South Wales. The main clinical sign in horses is ataxia
(incoordination).

"The coincidence of these cases with a period of extraordinarily high
mosquito activity after a heavy rainy season, and the apparent
association with proximity to water bodies is highly suggestive of
arbovirus (insectborne) infection," Cameron said.

"Cases of neurological disease have been previously seen in horses
during periods of Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE, an Australian form
of encephalitis) activity, such as in 1974," Cameron explained. "While
recent evidence of Ross River virus infection (an Australian arbovirus
spread by mosquitoes that causes joint and nervous system disease in
horses, according to the Victoria Government Health Information
website) has been detected in some of the horses sampled to date, the
possibility of MVE or other arboviruses is also being investigated.

"The horse is usually a 'dead-end' host for mosquito-borne arbovirus
infections," he added. "There is no risk to humans from direct contact
with horses, and it is highly likely that the great majority of horses
infected with arbovirus will develop no clinical symptoms."

Horse owners are encouraged to consult with their veterinary
practitioner as to means of reducing horse exposure to mosquitoes.

"Stabling during the dawn and dusk periods of mosquito activity is a
valuable strategy, and topical treatments and repellents are
available," Cameron said.

"There is no association with bat populations, and the symptoms and
course of illness in affected horses are unlike Hendra virus
infection, which has also been ruled out by precautionary testing," he
concluded.

--
communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[Some of the videos showing the affected horses are quite dramatic
and sad for the animals and their owners. The videos are making their
way through many veterinary emails and websites and can be obtained
from the Biosecurity Australia website at

http://www.daff.gov.au/ba

While indeed this may be Murray Valley encephalitis re-emerging, it
may well be Ross River virus. We look forward to an accurate
diagnosis. - Mod.TG

The HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map of Australia can be seen at
. - Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]

.................................................sb/tg/mj/sh
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and its associated service providers shall not be held
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or archived material.
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New Fears Humans Could Catch Fatal Cow Virus

2011-03-11T01:16:00.000-05:00

Johnnes Disease; http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/fears-humans-could-catch-fatal-cow-virus-1.1089553?localLinksEnabled=false

Hundreds of Sick Cows Reported in Mexico: Undiagnosed Disease

2011-03-07T14:09:00.000-05:00

UNDIAGNOSED ILLNESS, BOVINE - MEXICO: (02) (SAN LUIS POTOSI)
************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post

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

Date: Sun 6 Mar 2011
From: David Thomson [edited]

[re: Undiagnosed illness, bovine - Mexico: (SL), RFI 20110305.0724]
-------------------------------------------------------------------
There is not enough information for a speculative diagnosis in this
post, but might keep bovine babesiosis in the differential list for
it.

If an unsuspecting vet is called to examine a "dead" cow lying
flat-out in a pen or paddock in a tick-infested area, or a farm worker
is required to move an apparently quite sick cow, and it suddenly
jumps up when disturbed and proceeds to very aggressively attack,
quite often it turns out to be a case of cerebral babesiosis -- a
different kind of "mad cow" to the one affected by the prion disease,
quite often occurring in apparently acute 'outbreaks' and just the
sort of thing that might come across via a language translation.

--
David Thomson
Sub-regional Animal Health Specialist
Secretariat of the Pacific Community - Port Moresby

[The original article was rather sparse on details. While it
mentioned hundreds of animals are affected, it did not indicate over
what period of time. The article implied it was recently and not over
a vast period of time. Nevertheless, it may well have occurred over
the course of several weeks. Otherwise, we might have to suspect a
very rapid moving lethal virus, bacterium, or toxin. These may have
been able to affect hundreds of animals in a rapid fashion.

Cerebral babesiosis is possible and should be kept on a differential
list. Babesiosis in several species of animals is on the rise in
Mexico and southern Texas.

If the situation occurred over several weeks, it makes rabies,
especially from vampire bats more plausible, but if a shorter time
frame is involved, then it may not be as likely.

Listeriosis affects many species of animals, including humans.
Initially, affected animals are anorectic, depressed, and disoriented.
They may propel themselves into corners, lean against stationary
objects, or circle toward the affected side. Facial paralysis with a
drooping ear, deviated muzzle, flaccid lip, and lowered eyelid often
develops on the affected side, as well as lack of a menace response
and profuse, almost continuous, salivation; food material often
becomes impacted in the cheek due to paralysis of the masticatory
muscles. Terminally affected animals fall and, unable to rise, lie on
the same side; involuntary running movements are common.

Toxins may include, plants, other feed related toxicants, salt
intoxication/water deprivation, or chemicals such as insecticides.

We are looking forward to an accurate diagnosis and reporting of the
situation.

Portions of this comment were extracted from
.
- Mod.TG]

[see also:
Undiagnosed Illness, bovine - Mexico: (SL), RFI 20110305.0724]
.................................................tg/mj/sh
*##########################################################*
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ProMED-mail makes every effort to verify the reports that
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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
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
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New Case of Mad Cow / Alberta, Canada

2011-03-04T22:09:00.001-05:00

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/prairies/mad-cow-disease-found-in-alberta-dairy-cow-cfia/article1930738/

In 2009, we imported over ONE MILLION cows from Canada

New Guidelines Issued by UK Say Cut Red Meat Out of Diet to Lower Cancer Risk

2011-02-26T10:19:00.001-05:00

http://yourlife.usatoday.com/fitness-food/diet-nutrition/story/2011/02/Cut-red-meat-to-lower-cancer-risk/44163530/1

Livestock "Grower" Sues USDA over Failure to Certify "Organic"

2011-02-18T23:50:00.000-05:00

http://www.nebraska.tv/Global/story.asp?S=14058851

Former State Dept. of Ag Employee Pleads Guilty to Fake Mad Cow Reports

2011-02-18T23:38:00.001-05:00

Cozad man pleads guilty to fake mad cow reports

Feb 18, 2011 4:31pm Email Print LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) —

A Cozad man has pleaded guilty to mailing false reports for a federal mad cow disease inspection program. The Lincoln Journal Start reports that Galen Niehues pleaded guilty Thursday to mail fraud in U.S. District Court in Lincoln.

During the hearing, prosecutors said Niehues was employed by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture between July 2009 and March 2010 to perform on-site inspections of places where feed was manufactured and cattle fed to take sample and test compliance with rules to prevent the spread of mad cow disease.

Prosecutors say Niehues devised a scheme to get paid for work he didn't do and submitted 92 false reports showing he done the inspections and collected the required samples.

Niehues faces up to 20 years in prison. Sentencing is set for May 13.

___

Information from: Lincoln Journal Star, http://www.journalstar.com

CWD Still a Threat to Big Game

2011-02-17T21:42:00.001-05:00

http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/outdoors/2011/feb/17/chronic-wasting-disease-still-threat-big-game/

Korea: Disgust over FMD gives boost to vegetarianism

2011-02-14T22:02:00.001-05:00

February 15, 2011

As worries about foot-and-mouth disease spread, vegetarianism is enjoying new popularity, changing Korea’s negative image of vegetarians as people who are overly picky or obsessed with health.

This trend was obvious at the cafeteria in the Seoul National University Music Department on the afternoon of Feb. 7. The cafeteria serves a vegetarian buffet with main dishes made of grains and vegetables. The menu included Korean corn pancakes, a mushroom and red pepper stir-fry, and rice cake soup. The soup was brewed with mushroom, instead of the conventional beef. There was no meat offered.

Kim Eun-jung, a 24-year-old senior in the Law Department, said, “I tried going vegetarian last year but failed, and recently went back after observing the shocking process of culling foot-and-mouth infected livestock.”

Even in her coffee, Kim said, she now prefers soy milk, made from soybeans rather than cow’s milk.

“I plan to eat here at least once a day because of environmental concerns,” said Kim.

The cafeteria opened last October and expected 150 customers a day, but it draws 250 customers a day even during the vacation period.

“I started being vegetarian for my health,” said Eugene Roh, 23, “and I like the food here because it’s not salty.”

In Korea, there are approximately 500,000 vegetarians, about one percent of the population. Those ranks are swelling due to the mad cow disease scare of 2008 and now the unstoppable spread of foot-and-mouth disease.

There are three main reasons why people choose to be vegetarian: a concern for the environment, protection of animals’ rights and for health reasons.

“Young people usually go vegetarian for the environment and animal rights, while older people do it for their health,” said Lee Won Bok, who heads the Korean Vegetarianism Union. “And many people have gone vegetarian after being shocked by scenes of unethical killing of livestock.”

The number of visitors to the Korean Vegetarianism Union Web site (www.vege.or.kr) rose four times after the media reported on foot-and-mouth disease and the mass cullings of cattle and pigs. The former average of 3,000 to 4,000 visitors per day jumped to 15,000.

There are 50 vegetarian restaurants operating in Seoul. As more people turn to vegetarianism, some go to group meetings and share tips on vegetarian recipes. Vegetarian clubs are already operating at Seoul National, Sogang and Hanyang universities. They usually have meetings at vegetarian restaurants near the schools and run seminars on vegetarianism.

Shim Joon-gyu, 27, a law student preparing for the bar exam, has been a vegetarian for three years.

“My fellow students and I have vegetarian meetings and eat lunch and dinner together,” she said.

By Lee Han-gil [enational@joongang.co.kr]

Article; http://joongangdaily.joins.com/article/view.asp?aid=2932212

New Mad-Cow Disease Testing Raises Hopes for NZ Donors

2011-02-14T03:17:00.000-05:00

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/4651478/Mad-cow-disease-test-raises-hopes-for-NZ-donors

1st Case of BSE in USA NOT a Downer Cow

2011-02-13T15:23:00.000-05:00

http://www.organicconsumers.org/madcow/downer21904.cfm

Mad Cow Deer (CWD) Comes to Alleghany Co., Md.

2011-02-12T01:51:00.000-05:00

http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2011/02/11/chronic-wasting-disease-discovered-in-allegany-county/

USDA's Worst Nightmare Come True: New Test for Mad Cow Disease

2011-01-31T23:04:00.000-05:00

http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2011/01/31/3125943.htm

Egypts BSE Restrictions on US Beef Lifted, USDA Says

2011-01-29T23:35:00.000-05:00

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-01-29/egypt-s-bse-related-restrictions-on-u-s-beef-lifted-usda-says.html

Mad Cow Breakthrough: Scientists Create Prion in Lab

2011-01-29T23:31:00.000-05:00

http://www.naturalnews.com/001567_prions_mad_cow_disease.html

FEED RECALL / West Coast

2011-01-29T16:43:00.001-05:00

A manufacturer has issued a voluntary recall of horse feed that was distributed in California, Nevada and Oregon because it may contain a medication that can be fatal to horses if fed at high levels.

Missouri-based MANNA PRO PRODUCTS announced Friday it is voluntarily recalling FAMILY FARM COMPLETE HORSE 10 HORSE FEED, LOT NUMBER 1006 because it may contain potentially harmful levels of the medication MONENSIN SODIUM, or RUMENSIN.

The feed was distributed January 11 through January 21 to retailers in these three states. No illnesses or deaths have been reported and retailers have removed it from their stores, but the company says customers who purchased the product should STOP FEEDING IT IMMEDIATELY.

Factory Farms Are Destructive to Local Economies, Environments

2011-01-26T03:31:00.002-05:00

Example in this case is hogs,....SmithField owned; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfG50ymZUUU&feature=player_embedded

Two Few Food Animal Vets, Study Says

2011-01-24T21:47:00.001-05:00

http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2011/01/too-few-food-animal-vets-warn-food-safety-pros/

Mad Cow Found in Netherlands

2011-01-23T10:08:00.000-05:00

BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY - NETHERLANDS: (FRIESLAND), OIE
****************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post

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

Date: 22 Jan 2011
Source: OIE WAHID (World Animal Health Information Database) Disease
Information 2011; 24(4) [edited]
http://www.oie.int/wahis/public.php?page=single_report&pop=1&reportid=10152

Bovine spongiform encephalopathy, Netherlands
---------------------------------------------
Information received on 21 Jan 2011 from Dr Christianne Bruschke,
Chief Veterinary Officer, Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food
Quality, Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, The Hague,
Netherlands

Summary
Report type: Immediate notification (Final report)
Start date 04 Jan 2011
Date of 1st confirmation of the event 11 Jan 2011
Report date 21 Jan 2011
Date submitted to OIE 21 Jan 2011
Date event resolved 11 Jan 2011
Reason for notification: Reoccurrence of a listed disease
Date of previous occurrence 15 Oct 2010
Manifestation of disease: Clinical disease
Causal agent: Bovine spongiform encephalopathy agent
Nature of diagnosis: Laboratory (basic)
This event pertains to the whole country

New outbreaks
Outbreak 1 Lippenhuizen, Friesland
Date of start of the outbreak 04 Jan 2011
Outbreak status: Resolved (11 Jan 2011)
Epidemiological unit: Farm
Species Cattle
Susceptible 119
Cases 1
Deaths 0
Destroyed 1
Slaughtered 0

Epidemiology - Source of the outbreak(s) or origin of infection -
Unknown or inconclusive

Epidemiological comments - Result of a monitoring sample taken at a
rendering plant. The animal was euthanized by a veterinary
practitioner. There are no animals alive belonging to the birth
cohort and the feed cohort and there are no animals alive belonging
to the off-spring younger than 2 years. This is a case of atypical
BSE (L-type).

Control measures - Measures applied: Modified stamping out; No
vaccination; No treatment of affected animals

Measures to be applied - No other measures

Laboratory name and type: Central Veterinary Institute (CVI)
(Regional Reference Laboratory)
Species Cattle
Test immunohistochemical test
Test date 11 Jan 2011
Result Positive

Species Cattle
Test western blotting
Test date 11 Jan 2011
Result Positive

Future reporting
The event is resolved. No more reports will be submitted.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[The L type atypical BSE is one the 3 newer forms that have been
identified by active screening programs for BSE; H type atypical BSE
and atypical Scrapie are also included. The only BSE form proven to
cause disease in humans is the classical BSE which can lead to nVCJD
in humans. None of the other forms have yet been regard as causing
disease in humans, although there might be some zoonotic potential
for the atypical types of BSE, L and H. For more details, please see
the European Food Safety Agency Report: Joint Scientific Opinion on
any possible epidemiological or molecular association between TSEs in
animals and humans at
.

The Netherlands had a case last fall, and a single case in 2008, 2006
and 2005. It is not surprising and in fact, reassuring to see an
occasional case of BSE being picked up by the TSE surveillance
programs in place. We should expect to see several more cases in
different countries over the next years. - Mod.PC]

[see also:
2010
----
BSE - Netherlands (02): (NB), OIE 20101023.3843
BSE - Netherlands: new case 20100904.3176
Prion disease update 2010 (07) 20100809.2720
Prion disease update 2010 (06) 20100706.2248
Prion disease update 2010 (05) 20100507.1488
2003
----
BSE - Netherlands: source 20030203.0294
1999
----
BSE - Netherlands: fifth case 19990112.0038
1998
----
Netherlands: fourth case 19981023.2081
Netherlands: third case 19980827.1704
1997
----
BSE - Netherlands: possible source (06) 19970612.1237
BSE - Netherlands: second case (03) 19970407.0736
BSE - Netherlands (03) 19970406.0720
BSE - Netherlands (2) 19970324.0620
BSE - Netherlands 19970323.0612]
...................pc/ejp/dk

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Dioxin Feed Contamination Wreaking Havoc on Germanys Meat Producers

2011-01-22T17:11:00.001-05:00

DIOXIN FEED CONTAMINATION - GERMANY (04): COST
***********************************************
A ProMED-mail post

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

Date: 17 Jan 2011
Source: The Poultry Site

The latest dioxin scare has re-emerged as Germany closes more than
900 more farms following delayed information from another feed
manufacturer about sales of contaminated feed. Germany's dioxin scare
spread as 934 farms in 4 states were closed after receiving
dioxin-laced animal feed, according to Deutsche Welle (a news
source). The closures will add to the euro 100-million [USD 130
million] price tag the farmers' union attributed to the scandal.

Authorities in the state of Lower Saxony discovered a producer
suspected of selling dioxin-contaminated feed had hidden deliveries
to 934 farms, German Agriculture Minister Ilse Aigner said on
Saturday (15 Jan 2011). The farms have been temporarily shut, and Ms
Aigner called for immediate consequences.

"This is a scandal," she said, adding that she expected a detailed
report from Lower Saxony Premier, David McAllister, by the evening of
15 January 2011.

Elevated levels of dioxin have been traced to one fats manufacturer.
The numerous feed companies that buy its fat have faced testing all
last week to prove their products met the European Union's dioxin
standards of no more than one-trillionth part of food for human consumption.

Federal agriculture officials in Berlin said the latest feed-mixing
company to be implicated had only just been spotted and that there
was no indication it sold any tainted food. Berlin officials said the
Lower Saxony feed mixer had failed to inform authorities it had
bought fat from Harles and Jentzsch, the company at the centre of the scare.

Prosecutors are now investigating whether the company's non-reporting
was deliberate. It had supplied farms in Lower Saxony, as well as the
states of North-Rhine Westphalia, Brandenburg and Bavaria, reports
Deutsche Welle.

Hefty price tag for farmers
---------------------------
The discovery of the toxic chemical dioxin in animal feed has
triggered a health alert and hit sales of German eggs and pork.
Authorities are struggling to contain the scare, which began on 3 Jan
2011, when German officials said feed tainted with dioxin had been
fed to hens and pigs, contaminating eggs, poultry meat and some pork.

Damages from the ongoing scandal would be much greater than the
immediate costs of testing, according to Gerd Sonnleitner, president
of Germany's national farmers' union. "The damage from the disruption
in the market will be many times the direct damage," he said.

Deutsche Welle reports that Mr Sonnleitner put the price of
sequestering farms, requiring laboratory clearance and destroying
produce that failed dioxin tests would cost German farmers euro 100
million (USD 130 million).

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail rapporteur Mary Marshall

[All the articles mention dioxin, but there have not been any reports
of the associated chemicals like PCB, polychlorinated biphenyls. Some
of these associated products can be more toxic than the dioxins.

For more information on dioxins and the chemicals as well as harmful
levels, readers are encouraged to see ProMED-mail post 20110105.0053
and 20110108.0096. - Mod.TG]

[see also:
Dioxin feed contamination - Germany (03): official report 20110116.0192
Dioxin feed contamination - Germany (02): farms & food concern 20110108.0096
Dioxin feed contamination - Germany: swine & poultry farms 20110105.0053]
....................tg/ejp/dk

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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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BC Meat Plant Denies Breaking Disposal Rules

2011-01-22T14:48:00.000-05:00

http://license.icopyright.net/user/viewContent.act?clipid=596743197&mode=cnc&tag=3.8471%3Ficx_id%3D%2F2011%2F01%2F21%2Fpitt-meadows-workers-bse-fields.html

55 Buffalo Mysteriously Die on NY Farm

2011-01-22T11:02:00.000-05:00

http://auburnpub.com/news/local/article_6ca7410c-24ac-11e0-80dc-001cc4c03286.html

200 Cows Drop Dead at Wisconsin Farm

2011-01-16T10:43:00.000-05:00

UNDIAGNOSED DIE-OFF, BOVINE - USA (WISCONSIN), SUSPECTED RESPIRATORY DISEASE
****************************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post

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

Date: 14 Jan 2011
Source: JS online [edited]

200 dead cows found in Portage County field
-------------------------------------------
An investigation is under way after 200 dead cows were found in a field in
the Town of Stockton.

The Portage County sheriff's office says the owner of the cattle has been
working with a local veterinarian and it's believed the animals died from
the infectious bovine rhinotracheitis/bovine viral diarrhea (IBR/BVD)
virus. The virus can cause respiratory and reproductive problems.

WSAW reports samples from the dead cows have been sent to Madison for
testing. Authorities say there is no threat to humans or other animals.

--
communicated by:
Fred and Grace Hatton

[Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) is a highly contagious, infectious
disease that is caused by bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1). In addition to
causing respiratory disease, this virus can cause conjunctivitis,
abortions, encephalitis, and generalized systemic infections. IBR was
originally recognized during the early 1950s in feeder cattle in the
western United States. The IBR virus can persist in clinically recovered
animals for years. The virus remains inactive until the animal is placed
under stress. The virus is shed in secretions from the eye nose and
reproductive organs. The clinical diseases caused by the virus can be
grouped into: 1) respiratory tract infections 2) eye infections 3)
abortions 4) genital infections 5) brain infections 6) generalized
infections of newborn calves.

Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) is a viral disease of cattle and other
ruminants that is caused by the bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). BVDV is
a member of the pestivirus genus. There are 4 recognized species within the
pestivirus genus.

The clinical signs of BVDV are highly variable, including a spectrum from
few to no signs to very severe signs that kill the animal. The signs can be
determined by the genotype of the virus, whether the infection was recently
acquired (that is, acute) or has been acquired for months (that is,
chronic), whether the animal is pregnant, as well as other factors. Some of
the signs of acute infection are fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, ocular
discharge, nasal discharge, oral lesions, diarrhea, and decreasing milk
production. Chronic infection may lead to signs of mucosal disease.

These 2 diseases are often in a complex called mucosal diseases. These
diseases seem to have more impact in cold weather.

There is not enough information in this article to speculate beyond this.
We hope a definitive report will be available soon.

Portions of this comment have been extracted from

and
-
Mod.TG

A HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map of Wisonsin can be accessed at
. - Mod.SH]

[see also:
2008
---
Undiagnosed deaths, bovine - USA (WI): RFI 20080401.1200
2007
---
Undiagnosed deaths, bovine - USA (IN) (02) 20071012.3345
Undiagnosed deaths, bovine - USA (IN) 20071010.3321
Undiagnosed deaths, bovine - USA (WA): RFI 20070310.0851
2003
---
Undiagnosed illness, bovines, cervids - USA (TX)(02) 20030220.0439
Undiagnosed illness, bovine, cervids - USA (TX) 20030208.0339]

....................tg/ejp/sh

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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
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
************************************************************
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************************************************************
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BREAK-THROUGH MAD COW NEWS- BSE AIRBONE!

2011-01-14T00:29:00.004-05:00

We knew you cant cook it out, and we knew that it survives in the ground even after freezing winters, but who ever thought it would come to this?

Science-a-Go-Go; http://www.scienceagogo.com/news/20110013201145data_trunc_sys.shtml

Science Codex; http://www.sciencecodex.com/bse_pathogens_can_be_transmitted_by_air

The International Meat Congress / 2010

2011-01-12T11:22:00.001-05:00

http://www.worldmeatcongress2010.com/home_eng.php

Rumors Abound in S. Korea Regarding Cattle-Disease & US Imports

2011-01-12T00:19:00.002-05:00

http://www.businessghana.com/portal/news/index.php?op=getNews&news_cat_id=2&id=140667

PRION DISEASE UPDATE 2011 (01)

2011-01-10T23:09:00.000-05:00

******************************
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
10 Jan 2011 - no new vCJD cases
[2] France: Institut de Veille Sanitaire - monthly statistics as of
Wed 4 Jan 2011 - no new vCJD cases
[3] USA: National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center -
cumulative case numbers for 2010 up to 1 Nov 2010 - no vCJD cases
[4] Taiwan: suspected vCJD case, ex UK, DOH statement
[5] Taiwan: suspected vCJD case, 'ex UK'
[6] Italy (Livorno): 2nd vCJD case

******
[1]
UK: National CJD Surveillance Unit - monthly statistics as of Mon 10
Jan 2011 - no new vCJD cases
Date: Mon 10 Jan 2011
Source: UK National CJD Surveillance Unit, monthly statistics [edited]

The number of deaths due to definite or probable vCJD during 2010 was
170. A total of 4 definite/probable patients are still alive so the
total number of definite or probable vCJD recorded during 2010 was
174.

Although 3 new deaths due to vCJD were recorded in 2009 and 3 deaths
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 3 in 2010.

Totals for all types of CJD cases in the UK in the year 2010
------------------------------------------------------------
During 2010, there were 146 referrals, 69 fatal cases of sporadic
CJD, 3 fatal cases of vCJD, 2 cases of iatrogenic CJD, 5 cases of
familial CJD, and one case of GSS.

Since records began in 1990 there have been 2729 referrals, 1199
fatal cases of sporadic CJD, 170 cases of vCJD, 64 cases of
iatrogenic CJD, 82 cases of familial CJD and 43 of GSS.

--
communicated by:
ProMED-mail

******
[2] France: Institut de Veille Sanitaire - monthly statistics as of 4
Jan 2011 - no new vCJD cases
Date: Tue 4 Jan 2011
Source: IVS - Maladie de Creutzfeldt-Jakob et maladies apparentees
[in French, trans. & summ. Mod.CP, edited]

During the 12 months of 2010, there were 1610 referrals, 98 confirmed
cases of sporadic CJD, 6 cases of familial CJD, and no cases of
iatrogenic CJD or vCJD.

A total of 25 cases of confirmed or probable vCJD have 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 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, during about 10 years from 1987.

--
communicated by:
ProMED-mail

******
[3] USA: National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center -
cumulative case numbers for 2010 up to 1 Nov 2010 - no vCJD cases
Date: Mon 1 Nov 2010
Source: US National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center [edited]

Cumulative data 1 Jan 2010 to 31 October 2010
---------------------------------------------
During the 10-month period 1 Jan 2010 to 31 Oct 2010, there were 333
referrals, 213 of whom were classified as prion disease cases,
comprising 158 cases of sporadic CJD, 33 of familial CJD, and none of
iatrogenic CJD or vCJD.

Overall of 3831 referrals examined since screening began in 1996 or
thereabouts, diagnosis is still pending in 18 cases, and another 18
cases have been considered inconclusive. [This is a measure of the
difficulty in achieving unequivocal diagnoses. - Mod.CP]

During the same period a total of 2265 prion disease cases have been
screened, a figure which includes 23 (22 during 2010) cases with type
determination pending, but in which a diagnosis of vCJD has been
excluded. 3 cases of vCJD recorded in the USA during the same period
have been attributed to infection in the United Kingdom in 2 cases,
and in Saudi Arabia in the other.

--
communicated by:
ProMED-mail

******
[4] Taiwan: suspected vCJD case, ex UK, DOH statement
Date: Thu 9 Dec 2010
Source: Taiwan Today [edited]

A 36-year-old Taiwanese male is very likely to have died from
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, the Cabinet-level Department of Health
(DOH) said on [8 Dec 2010].

The patient, who died this May [2010], resided in the United Kingdom
between 1989 and 1997, when bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in
cattle was at its peak in the UK. It is unlikely that the patient
contracted his disease in Taiwan, the DOH said.

Scientists believe that many years after eating cattle infected with
BSE, patients can develop symptoms of CJD. In the case of the
36-year-old patient, he began to show CJD symptoms, including memory
loss and hypersomnia, in the 2nd half of 2008. Doctors reported to
health authorities in March 2009 that they suspected he had CJD.

After the patient died this year [2010], his family refused to give
doctors permission to perform [an autopsy], the only way the doctors
could determine the cause of death with certainty. His body has since
been cremated. "Though tests were not conducted, the man is an
extremely likely case of CJD, based on his symptoms, travel history,
and the results of magnetic resonance imaging and
electroencephalograms," the Centers for Disease Control under the DOH
said.

The DOH further specified that the patient probably died from variant
CJD [vCJD]. "The World Health Organization has listed the man as a
vCJD case as his brain waves and cerebrospinal fluid showed symptoms
of CJD and vCJD simultaneously," said Chen Shun-seng, convener of
DOH's CJD advisory committee and a neurologist at Kaohsiung Chang
Gung Memorial Hospital.

According to the World Health Organization, CJD is a fatal human
degenerative condition characterized by progressive brain dysfunction
and is categorized into 4 forms: sporadic, familial, iatrogenic, and
variant. "It is believed to be caused by self-replicating
host-encoded protein or prion protein," the WHO said.

According to the UK Department of Health, vCJD differs from CJD in
that the former is more likely to strike younger people. The average
age of death for vCJD victims is around 30 years old, it said.

As of October 2010, there have been 243 possible or extremely
possible cases of CJD reported in Taiwan, resulting in 102 deaths. Of
the deaths, 5 have been confirmed as resulting from CJD, the DOH said.

[byline: Grace Kuo]

--
communicated by:
HealthMap Alerts via ProMED-mail

[This press report provides background to the case described in the
preceding update (ProMED-mail Prion disease update 2010 (11)
20101206.4364, part [4], which was an abstract reproduced from the
journal Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences
.
The press report above states that the World Health Organization has
listed the man as a vCJD case, but I have been unable to verify this
statement. - Mod.CP]

[The HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map of Taiwan is available at
. - Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]

******
[5] Taiwan: suspected vCJD case, ex UK
Date: Sat 18 Dec 2010
Source: Focus Taiwan, Central News Agency (CNA) report [edited]

The 1st probable human case of mad cow disease in Taiwan was listed
posthumously Saturday [18 Dec 2010], following the death in May
[2010] of a man who had symptoms of the fatal brain-wasting illness.
[The clinical investigation of this case was reported in the
preceding update: Prion disease update 2010 (11) 20101206.4364, part
[4] -- Yang CW, Fuh JL, Wang SJ, et al: Probable variant
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in Asia: A case report from Taiwan and
review of two prior cases. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci, 64(6): 652-8.
doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1819.2010.02151.x. published online 25 Nov 2010;
abstract available at
].

The listing was made after officials and experts on a Department of
Health (DOH) panel on Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) held a meeting
to determine whether the man had died from the disease as result of
eating infected beef.

"We believe it is very likely that the man who died in May this year
[2010] contracted the disease during his stay in the United Kingdom,"
the DOH said in a press statement. "We cannot rule out the
possibility that he ate infected beef during that time."

Scientists believe that many years after eating cattle infected with
bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) , commonly known as mad cow
disease, humans can develop symptoms of new variant CJD (vCJD), also
known as human mad cow disease.

The 36-year-old man had lived in the UK between 1989 and 1997, when
mad cow disease was at its peak in that country. He began to show
vCJD symptoms, including memory loss and hypersomnia, in 2008.
Doctors reported the case to the DOH's Centers for Disease Control in
March 2009.

As his family refused to give doctors permission to perform an
autopsy, the DOH said, it could not list the patient as a confirmed
case of vCJD. His body has since been cremated.

Though the cause of death could not be determined by means of an
autopsy, it was an extremely likely case of vCJD, based on the man's
symptoms, travel history, and the results of magnetic resonance
imaging and electroencephalograms, the DOH said.

According to the DOH's CJD advisory panel, it was unlikely that the
patient contracted the disease in Taiwan.

"His death could be counted as an imported case of vCJD and unlikely
to pose any threat to Taiwan's disease control network," the DOH
statement said.

Citing its tracking records, the DOH said the man had donated blood
to 2 patients 10 years ago. "Neither of them has contracted the
disease," the statement said, adding that precautionary measures had
been taken to prevent any spread of the disease during the time the
man was hospitalized in Taiwan.

According to the World Health Organization, CJD is a fatal human
degenerative condition characterized by progressive brain dysfunction
and is categorized into four forms -- sporadic, familial, iatrogenic,
and variant.

The UK Department of Health has said vCJD differs from CJD in that
the former is more likely to strike younger people.

Since 1997 when the DOH set up a CJD reporting and monitoring system,
436 suspected CJD or vCJD have been reported in Taiwan, DOH figures
show. Of that number, 246 were listed as possible or extremely
possible cases of sporadic or familial forms of CJD, 5 were confirmed
as traditional forms of CJD and one was listed as probable vCJD,
according to the DOH tallies.

The others were ruled out as possible cases of CJD.

[byline: Chen ching-fang, Sofia Wu]

--
communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[In view of the fact that the patient's body has been cremated, the
investigation cannot proceed further and the case must remain
suspected rather than confirmed vCJD. If the patient's disease was
vCJD, it is probable that it was contracted during the victim's 8
years residence in the UK. - Mod.CP]

*****
[6] Italy (Livorno): 2nd vCJD case
Date: Thu 6 Jan 2011
Source: Adnkronos Inernational (AKI) [edited]

The human variant of the brain-wasting 'mad cow' disease claimed a
2nd victim in Italy after a 44-year-old woman died in hospital in the
northwestern port city of Livorno, the local health authority
reported on Thursday [6 Jan 2011]. The health authority said the
44-year-old Livorno woman died on Wednesday 5 Jan 20011] and [had
been] admitted to a city hospice in July [2010] in the final stages
of her battle against variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD),
commonly known as 'mad cow' disease. There is no known cure for vCJD.

Italy's 1st case, a Sicilian woman, died in 2002, a year after she
contracted the disease.

Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is the human form of the fatal
brain-wasting illness first identified in cattle -- BSE or bovine
spongiform encephalopathy. A total of 275 people have been infected
with the disease over the past decade, 170 in Britain, the
worst-affected country, 56 in Israel, and 25 in France. [As of 31 Dec
2010 the current totals of vCJD cases according to the European and
Allied Countries CJD Study Group
() are UK -171, France - 25,
Eire - 4, Italy - 4, USA - 3*, Canada - 1, Saudi Arabia - 1*, Japan -
1*, Netherlands - 3, Portugal -2, Spain - 5, where * indicates
non-indigenous. - Mod.CP]

Nearly 200 000 cattle have died from BSE over the same period. The
human form of BSE is believed to be caused by eating meat infected
with the bovine disease. EU restrictions on the sale of T-bone beef
steaks and beef offal were lifted in 2006 when officials declared the
'mad cow' outbreak was over.

A massive cull in Britain prevented the spread of the disease but
isolated cases are still reported. Almost 190 000 cattle have died
from BSE over the past 10 years, the vast majority in the UK.

Italy's health ministry and various local health authorities have
always denied vCJD patients can infect their family members and
carers with the disease.

--
communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[The HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map of Italy is available at
. - Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]

[see also:
2010
---
Prion disease update 2010 (11) 20101206.4364
Prion disease update 2010 (10) 20101105.4008
Prion disease update 2010 (09) 20101006.3622
Prion disease update 2010 (08) 20100911.3285
Prion disease update 2010 (07) 20100809.2720
Prion disease update 2010 (06) 20100706.2248
Prion disease update 2010 (05) 20100507.1488
Prion disease update 2010 (04) 20100405.1091
Prion disease update 2010 (03) 20100304.0709
Prion disease update 2010 (02) 20100205.0386
Prion disease update 2010 20100107.0076]

.................sb/cp/mj/lm

*##########################################################*
************************************************************
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
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Mad-Cow Disease Claims 2nd Italian Victim

2011-01-07T00:41:00.001-05:00

http://www.adnkronos.com/IGN/Aki/English/Security/Italy-Mad-cow-disease-claims-second-Italian-victim_311503811571.html

Vilsack Toots Own Horn (Again) Talks About 2010 Accomplishments

2011-01-04T00:23:00.001-05:00

I say, lets talk about the Pigford Scandal, which I understand is still going on;

http://brianallmerradionetwork.wordpress.com/2011/01/03/01-03-11-usda-a-look-back-on-2010-with-secretary-vilsack/#comment-12407

USDA Relaxes Regs, More Meat-Industry Protectionism

2011-01-04T00:10:00.003-05:00

USDA Revises Testing & Certification Requirements For The National Brucellosis Program

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) today announced an interim rule that amends its current brucellosis regulations.

“The brucellosis program has been very successful at reducing the disease in this country,” said John Clifford, chief veterinary officer for APHIS. “Today, the disease is mostly eliminated from the United States, with the exception of the known reservoir of brucellosis in the Greater Yellowstone area. These new regulations will help us better address the current situation and continue to move toward our long-term goal of complete eradication.”

Specifically, these amendments:

* Reduce the amount of testing required to maintain Class Free status for states that have been Class Free for five or more years and have no Brucella abortus in wildlife;
* Remove the provision for automatic reclassification of any Class Free state or area to a lower status if two or more herds are found to have brucellosis within a two-year period or if a single brucellosis-affected herd is not depopulated within 60 days;
* Reduce the age at which cattle are included in herd blood tests;
* Add a requirement that any Class Free state or area with Brucella abortus in wildlife must develop and implement an APHIS-approved brucellosis management plan in order to maintain Class Free status;
* Provide an alternative testing protocol for maintaining the certified brucellosis-free status of dairy herds, which will give producers more flexibility for the herd certification process.

These changes are necessary to refocus resources to control and prevent the spread of brucellosis and to protect and maintain the economic viability of the domestic livestock industry. The interim rule is the first step in updating the brucellosis program, and is consistent with the proposed changes set out in a concept paper USDA published in October 2009. USDA considered the 361 comments received on the concept paper during the 90-day comment period, and incorporated state, industry and public input when creating the interim rule. As USDA continues to move forward with finalizing new regulations for the brucellosis program, we will continue to engage stakeholders and other interested parties for input.

The interim rule is published in today’s Dec. 27, 2010, Federal Register and becomes effective upon publication.

Public comments on this interim rule will be accepted, and used as USDA continues to move forward with finalizing new regulations for the brucellosis program. Consideration will be given to comments received on or before Feb. 25, 2011. You may submit comments by either of the following methods:

* Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to www.regulations.gov/fdmspublic/component/main?main=DocketDetail&d=APHIS-2009-0083 to submit or view comments and to view supporting and related materials available electronically.
* Postal Mail/Commercial Delivery: please send one copy of your comment to Docket No. APHIS-2009-0083, Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS, Station 3A-03.8, 4700 River Road, Unit 118, Riverdale, MD 20737-1238. Please state that your comment refers to Docket No. APHIS-2009-0083.

Comments are posted on the Regulations.gov website and may also be reviewed at USDA, Room 1141, South Building, 14th St. and Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C., between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. To facilitate entry into the comment reading room, please call (202) 690-2817.

http://www.cattlenetwork.com/USDA-Revises-Testing---Certification-Requirements-For-The-National-Brucellosis-Program/2011-01-03/Article_Latest_News.aspx?oid=1295887&fid=CN-LATEST_NEWS_

Cattle Health: New Importation Regulations For Trichomoniasis In Kansas

2011-01-03T23:40:00.002-05:00

01/03/2011 09:43AM

Trichomoniasis (infection caused by Tritrichomonas foetus), commonly known as Trich, has been added to the list of officially reportable diseases in Kansas. This means ranchers, managers or veterinarians who discover the existence of Trich, must report it immediately. Bulls coming into Kansas are required to be tested for Trich prior to importation.

Historically, Trich has been a major problem primarily in western states with Federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) communal grazing lands. However, this disease has been diagnosed with increasing frequency in many private beef cattle operations in Kansas during recent times. Both increased testing and improved diagnostic methods have suggested that this disease has a significant presence in Kansas.

Trich infection routinely causes female reproductive/infertility problems which clinically appear as repeat breeding and poor pregnancy results. Pregnancy rates may be decreased as much as 50 percent or more when Trich enters the herd. Many older cows will clear the infection within 3 months and then go on to conceive if the breeding season is long enough. However, calving may be spread out over a longer period of time resulting in wider than expected range in calf sizes. Heifers will rarely rebreed if a short breeding season is used. Herd owners may notice that cows previously observed being bred may be seen taking the bull again later, and that bulls are still working hard late in the breeding season. Open cows or cases of pyometra (pus-filled uterus) detected at preg check time may be a result of Trich infection.

Trich is sexually-transmitted, with bulls being persistent carriers. Infected bulls show no signs of disease. They remain infected for life. Mature bulls are typically more of a problem than younger bulls due to increased preputial wrinkling which provides a better environment for growth of the organism. There is no treatment that will clear up infected bulls. Because bulls are the primary carrier of the disease, the focus of all testing programs is to detect and remove infected bulls.

Infected bulls and open cows should be sold only for slaughter. Open heifers should be sold only as feeders. Management practices that will help ensure that you do not bring this disease into your herd include buying young virgin bulls, virgin replacement heifers, “experienced” bulls that test negative, cows with calf at side that have not been re-exposed to a bull, or cows that are known to be at least 120 days pregnant.

All western states and states neighboring Kansas have in place or are in the process of developing regulations to (1) stop the importation of bulls that might be infected with this disease into the state, and (2) stop the movement of bulls carrying this disease between herds within the respective states. Their laws require all non-virgin bulls be tested and certified negative for Trich before being imported into or sold within the state.

Testing for the presence of the trich organism involves sampling non-virgin bulls or bulls of unknown sexual activity status. Preputial scrapings inoculated into special transport/growth media pouches are required. Your veterinarian should be able to obtain these pouches and do the proper sample collection and submission for you.

Trichomoniasis test results from Kansas cattle must be reported to the Kansas Animal Health Department within 48 hours of obtaining results. This applies to tests conducted by an accredited lab in Kansas or reported to an accredited Kansas veterinarian.

To be certified as negative, samples from a test-eligible animal must have been:
1) Collected into and transported to the lab using the In PouchTM TF test kit system;
2) Submitted to an AAVLD-accredited laboratory for testing;
3a) Found negative on 3 successive InPouchTM microscopic examination tests on test samples collected at least 1 week apart.

or

3b) Found negative on 1 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on samples collected only after the bull has been sexually rested for a minimum of 2 weeks before sample collection.

Kansas Importation Regulations
Bulls entering Kansas from another state must be:
1) Shipped or sold directly to a Kansas licensed slaughter facility.

or

2a) Individually identified with an officiallyrecognized device or method.

and

2b) Accompanied by a certificate of veterinary inspection completed within 30 days prior to entering the state. The certifying veterinarian must attest to any knowledge of the existence of Trichomoniasis in the herd of origin within the previous 2 years.

and

2c) Accompanied by either:
• For virgin bulls eighteen (18) months of age or younger:
i) a breeder’s certificate (statement that bulls have not been exposed to breeding aged females),
ii) breeder’s signature
iii) animal’s age in months
iv) individual identification

or

• For non-virgin bulls, bulls nineteen (19) months of age or older, and those of unknown status:
A copy of the animal’s certified negative test results from an AAVLD-accredited laboratory, to include:
i) animal’s officially-recognized individual identification
ii) owner’s name and address
iii) name and address of veterinarian who collected and submitted the test samples
iv) number and type of test conducted (3 InPouchTM microscopic exams or 1 PCR test)

Note: The owner shall ensure that no female contact occurs following the first qualifying test.

Exceptions to these requirements will be granted only to bulls being shipped directly to slaughter, a sanctioned rodeo event, or a livestock show where they will be shown and then returned to the state of origin without being sexually exposed to breedingaged females.

Following input from and discussion by stakeholders of the Kansas beef industry, it is anticipated that regulations to control the spread of Trich within the borders of Kansas will be developed. Watch for details in a future issue of Beef Tips.

Source: Larry C. Hollis, D.V.M, M.Ag, extension beef veterinarian

http://www.cattlenetwork.com/Cattle-Health--New-Importation-Regulations-For-Trichomoniasis-In-Kansas/2011-01-03/Article.aspx?oid=1295676&fid=CN-FEATURES-DNA_PROFILING

The Most Important Livestock Disease You Probably Never Even Heard Of

2011-01-01T19:40:00.002-05:00

Johnes;
http://meatsubs.blogspot.com/2010/12/most-important-disease-you-probably.html

USDA Creates Bill to Compell Japan to Buy Our Beef, Lies to Congress about Mad Cow

2011-01-01T11:06:00.005-05:00

Lies highlighted in bold italics

S. Res. 452

RESOLUTION

Supporting increased market access for exports of United States beef and beef products to Japan.

Whereas, in 2003, Japan was the largest market for United States beef, with exports valued at $1,400,000,000;

Whereas, after the discovery of 1 Canadian-born cow infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) disease in the State of Washington in December of 2003, Japan closed its market to United States beef, and still restricts access to a large number of safe United States beef products;

Whereas for years the Government of the United States has developed and implemented a multilayered system of interlocking safeguards to ensure the safety of United States beef, and after the 2003 discovery, the United States implemented further safeguards to ensure beef safety;

Whereas a 2006 study by the United States Department of Agriculture found that BSE was virtually nonexistent in the United States; ( I would like to see a copy of this "study")

Whereas the internationally recognized standard-setting body, the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), has classified the United States as a controlled risk country for BSE, which means that United States beef is safe for export and consumption. (Oh yes and we believe anything the WHO has to say......we KNOW they would never lie to U.S. (not.)

Full text; http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=sr111-452

USDA Gets New National "Sheep Center," Creates New Jobs for Big-Ag Bureaucrats

2011-01-01T00:27:00.004-05:00

The jobs; http://www.hpj.com/archives/2011/jan11/jan3/1213SheepCenterDirectorsNam.cfm?title=USDA%20announces%20Sheep%20Center%20directors

The Center; http://www.lincoln-county-chronicle.com/2010/12/07/usda-establishes-new-national-sheep-industry-improvement-center-idahoan-appointed-to-board/

S. Korea Devistated by Animal Disease, FMD, Avian Flu

2010-12-31T07:33:00.004-05:00

Highest Alert on FMD; http://m.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2010/12/117_78861.html

Bird Flu Cull; http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-12097615

Payback gratis USA for refusing imports of our meat?

See; http://meatsubs.blogspot.com/

Mad Deer / Virginia

2010-12-27T08:24:00.001-05:00

CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE, CERVID - USA (14): (VIRGINIA)
***********************************************
A ProMED-mail post

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

Date: 22 Dec 2010
Source: NV Daily [edited]

Chronic wasting disease likely could threaten the region's deer
population for years, according to the state agency studying the illness.

A 4-point buck killed in western Frederick County in late November
2010 tested positive for the disease, according to a news release
from the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.

The positive test marked only the 2nd time the disease has appeared
in a deer specimen in Virginia, according to the release. A hunter
shot the buck near the West Virginia line, less than 2 miles from
where Virginia's 1st case of CWD appeared last year [2009], the
agency reported.

"The one thing this does is it confirms that last year's [2009] was
not a fluke," said Nelson Lafon, deer project coordinator for the
department. "We know the disease is in the area, and it means we're
in this for the long haul, and we've kinda told hunters and folks at
those public meetings we held that we see ourselves doing this
[testing] for years."

The agency foresees collecting 500 samples or more from the
containment area during each hunting season and monitoring the
disease in the hopes it doesn't spread, Lafon said.

The state's counterparts in West Virginia continue to find cases of
CWD in neighboring Hampshire County, WV, according to Lafon. The
agencies remain in contact almost weekly, he said, sharing sample
data and other information to model the prevalence of the disease.

"It is, realistically, all part of the same outbreak," Lafon said.
"Having the presence of that disease and then continuing to find it
right on our border is what concerns us. Even if we somehow knock it
out in Virginia, we still have that source, if you will, on the other
side of the border. It makes it more challenging to combat. You know,
the deer don't know the boundary, and the landscape's pretty much the
same on either side."

The project coordinator said he doesn't think the latest case will
spur more action because the deer was found close to the previous
year's [2009] discovery. The department after last season banned
feeding and rehabilitating deer, moving their waste, carcasses and
parts from the containment area, and put a bag limit in effect for
private lands, according to the press release. "We kind of opened the
tool box, and we're already using pretty much every tool in there,"
Lafon said. "But it does mean that we're gonna continue looking for
the disease."

The department also awaits test results on about 100 more samples.
The agency cannot determine whether to change its strategies until
after the season ends 1 Jan 2011 and the department has received all
test results, according to the release.

The agency lauded hunters for their cooperation in helping with the
study, which covers Shenandoah and Frederick counties west of
Interstate 81 and north of Va. 675 near Edinburg. Hunters submitted
the head and necks of the deer they bagged, and the department tested
the samples for the disease, along with carcasses of those killed on the road.

"Hunters have done just about everything they can," he said.

More than a week remains in this deer-hunting season, and the
department continues to urge successful hunters to submit samples in
the refrigerated stations set up at designated locations. Collection
centers likely will be open 2 Jan 2011 for hunters to drop off
samples, Lafon said.

CWD, which affects the nervous system, has been detected in 18 states
and 2 Canadian provinces. The disease [eventually] kills the infected
deer, elk or moose, but no evidence exists to show the animals can
naturally transmit the illness to humans, livestock or pets,
according to the release.

Visit for more
information.

[Byline: Alex Bridges]

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[This does not seem to represent an expansion of the disease beyond
last year's 2009 containment zone. Although the state has referenced
last year, it refers to the last hunting season, which ended in January 2010.

The specimen referred to in the article above may lead us to believe
that either the animal was early in its infection and not showing
clinical signs, or the hunter saw an affected deer and gave it a
rapid death. We are not told the condition of the animal, but most
hunters are looking for healthy animals, so likely this deer was not
showing clinical signs.

As a positive animal, does the department issue a hunting tag to
allow this hunter to try for another animal? While there is no
evidence that this disease affects people, most people dispose of the
meat as an exercise in an abundance of caution. This disease has been
in the United States since the 1960's and possibly farther back than
that without evidence of it affecting humans or other predators. - Mod.TG]

[see also:
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (02): (VA) 20100124.0261]
................................................sb/tg/msp/mpp

More about CWD; http://www.welcometohunting.com/video/CWD/cable/cwd.html

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Big-Meat Beg Senators for Analysis of Rule

2010-12-25T01:00:00.003-05:00

Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.), this week sent a letter signed by 11 of his colleagues to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, urging him to follow through on his pledge to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of changes to livestock marketing regulations proposed by the Grain Inspection Packers and Stockyards Administration. Vilsack pledged in a recent meeting with meat industry officials that USDA would conduct "a far more rigorous cost-benefit analysis" of the proposed GIPSA livestock rule.

It is estimated that the rule would cost the pork industry, alone, $333 million annually after an initial $69 million expense. The National Pork Producers Council, in comments filed last month, asked that GIPSA withdraw all portions of the proposed rule that went beyond the five issues Congress asked it to address.

Full article;
http://www.porkmag.com/directories.asp?pgID=675&ed_id=10345

The Secret Life of Beef

2010-12-22T15:43:00.001-05:00

http://informinc.org/pages/media/the-secret-life-series/secret-life-beef.html

Meat Market Down

2010-12-18T05:05:00.000-05:00

http://www.kwqc.com/Global/story.asp?S=13704889

Scripps Research Scientists Show Prions Mutate and Adapt to Host Environment

2010-12-17T21:47:00.000-05:00

17/12/2010 05:18:00

Findings Point to Normal Prion Protein as Most Effective Therapeutic Target for "Mad Cow" and Related Diseases

JUPITER, FL – Scientists from the Florida campus of The Scripps Research Institute have shown that prions, bits of infectious protein that can cause fatal neurodegenerative disease such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) or "mad cow disease," have the ability to adapt to survive in a new host environment.

In this regard, although they lack DNA and RNA, they behave much like viruses, producing distinct self-perpetuating structural mutations that provide a clear evolutionary advantage.

The study was published this week in the online Early Edition the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

"We found that when a particular prion strain is transferred from brain cells to a different cell line, its properties gradually change, giving rise to a variant strain that is better adapted to this new cellular environment," said Charles Weissmann, M.D., Ph.D., the head of Scripps Florida's Department of Infectology, who led the study. "If those same prions are subsequently transferred to another cell line, they change again, adapting to these new host cells. And if returned to the brain, the prions gradually regain their original properties. We found physical evidence that, at least in one case, the fold of the prion changed when its properties changed."

Darwinian Evolution Without DNA

These new findings come approximately one year after Weissmann and colleagues published a study in the January 1, 2010 edition of the journal Science that showed that prions were capable of Darwinian evolution.

That earlier study also showed that prions can develop large numbers of mutations and that these mutations can bring about such evolutionary adaptations as drug resistance, a phenomenon previously known to occur only in bacteria and viruses. This study also suggested that the normal prion protein – which occurs naturally in mammalian cells – may prove to be a more effective therapeutic target than its abnormal toxic relation.

"Because prions can adapt to changing environments, it now becomes clear that it will be more difficult than originally thought to find drugs that will work against them," Weissmann said. "But if you could develop a drug that inhibits formation of the normal prion protein, you could, in essence, starve the infectious prions and prevent them from reproducing. This approach to treatment, although technically demanding, can be envisaged because, as we have shown earlier, deprivation of PrP is not detrimental to health – at least to the health of mice."

Folding and Misfolding

Prions, which are composed solely of protein, are classified by distinct strains, characterized by their incubation time and the disease they cause. In addition to BSE/mad cow disease in cattle, diseases caused by prions include scrapie in sheep, chronic wasting disease in deer, and variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans. Prions have the ability to reproduce, despite the fact that they contain no nucleic acid genome.

Mammalian cells normally produce cellular prion protein or PrPC. During infection, abnormal or misfolded protein – known as PrPSc – converts the normal host prion protein into its toxic form by changing its conformation or shape. The end-stage consists of large sheets (polymers) of these misfolded proteins, which causes massive tissue and cell damage.

"The infectious prion protein can fold in different ways, and depending on the fold, a different prion strain results," Weissmann said. "As long as prions are maintained in the same host, they retain their characteristic fold, so that strains breed true."

When prions multiply, however, that fold is not always reproduced correctly, so a prion population contains many variants, albeit at low levels.

The new study found that when a prion population is transferred to a different host, one of the variants may replicate faster – an evolutionary advantage – and become the dominant strain. This new population also contains variants, one of which may be selected over others when transferred to a different host.

"The result is that prions, although devoid of genetic material, behave similarly to viruses and other pathogens, in that they can mutate and undergo evolutionary selection," Weissmann said. "They do it by changing their fold, while viruses incur changes in their nucleic acid sequence."

Diverse Yet Related

The new study suggests that prion populations constitute a "quasi-species" similar in nature to RNA viruses and retroviruses, such as flu viruses and HIV.

The idea of a quasi-species was first conceived by Manfred Eigen, a German biophysicist who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1967. Basically, a quasi-species is a complex, self-perpetuating population of diverse and related entities that act as a whole. It was Weissmann, however, who in 1978 provided the first confirmation of the theory through the study of a particular bacteriophage – a virus that infects bacteria – while he was director of the Institut für Molekularbiologie in Zürich, Switzerland.

But that's where the comparison ends, Weissmann said.

"The fact that they behave like viruses doesn't mean they're anything like a virus," he said. "A bicycle is like a car in that it gets you from one place to the other, but they're not the same. The end effect is the same, however. Prions and viruses are both able to change their structure to survive."

The first author of the study, "Transfer of a Prion Strain to Different Hosts Leads to Emergence of Strain Variants," is Sukhvir P. Mahal of Scripps Research. Other authors include Shawn Browning, Jiali Li, and Irena Suponitsky-Kroyter, also of Scripps Research. For more information, see http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2010/12/13/1013014108.abstract .

The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health and the Alafi Family Foundation.

About The Scripps Research Institute

The Scripps Research Institute is one of the world's largest independent, non-profit biomedical research organizations, at the forefront of basic biomedical science that seeks to comprehend the most fundamental processes of life. Scripps Research is internationally recognized for its discoveries in immunology, molecular and cellular biology, chemistry, neurosciences, autoimmune, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases, and synthetic vaccine development. Established in its current configuration in 1961, it employs approximately 3,000 scientists, postdoctoral fellows, scientific and other technicians, doctoral degree graduate students, and administrative and technical support personnel. Scripps Research is headquartered in La Jolla, California. It also includes Scripps Florida, whose researchers focus on basic biomedical science, drug discovery, and technology development. Scripps Florida is located in Jupiter, Florida. For more information, see www.scripps.edu .

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mika Ono
10550 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, California 92037
Tel: 858-784-2052
Fax: 858.784.8136
mikaono@scripps.edu

Feedlot Cattle Numbers Grow

2010-12-16T23:54:00.001-05:00

http://dailylivestockreport.com/documents/dlr%2012-16-2010.pdf

New Study Poses New Questions as to Origin of BSE

2010-12-11T00:58:00.001-05:00

http://www.healthnewsdigest.com/news/Research_270/Virus-Like_Structure_Calls_Into_Question_Origin_of_Diseases_Such_as_Mad_Cow.shtml

First Case of Death from Human Mad-Cow Disease Reported in Tiawan

2010-12-08T22:19:00.002-05:00

A Taiwanese man, who spent eight years in the United Kingdom before returning home, died earlier this year from what appeared to be mad-cow disease, the Centers for Disease Control reports.

Full Article; http://focustaiwan.tw/ShowNews/WebNews_Detail.aspx?Type=aALL&ID=201012080028

Trent Looser Promotes Artificial Hormones in Meat

2010-12-06T23:15:00.002-05:00

Big Ag Advocate and Convicted Cattle Rustler Says Cant Beat His Meat; http://www.vitalrecipe.com/view/f27au6nu0/hormones-the-facts-may-surprise-you/

Rapid Test for Mad-Cow Disease Coming Soon

2010-12-04T23:17:00.002-05:00

No doubt in my mind, this is NOT good news for the USDA and the "Meat-Growers" of the world. Once this test is in production, the REAL gravity and prevalence of the matter will become known;

http://www.smartplanet.com/technology/blog/rethinking-healthcare/coming-soon-a-rapid-test-for-mad-cow-disease/2291/

"Meat-Growers" Ask: Wheres the Beef in S. Korea's Free Trade Agreement

2010-12-04T23:11:00.004-05:00

Apparently, the issue of American Beef Imports to S. Korea was left out of the Free Trade Agreement; http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/us-korea-free-trade-deal-beef/story?id=12313952

New Prion Discovery Reveals Drug-Target for Mad Cow Disease & Related Illnesses

2010-12-01T21:46:00.001-05:00

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/12/101201102601.htm

Counsil Conclusions on TSE / USA the Worst

2010-12-01T01:28:00.001-05:00

The U.S. has lower sanitary and phyto-sanitary standards (SPS) for imports than many other countries, especially those concerning bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). These low standards have made the U.S. a dumping ground for beef from the countries that have experienced BSE problems.

Full article; http://transmissiblespongiformencephalopathy.blogspot.com/2010/11/council-conclusions-on-tse-road-map-2.html

Mad Cow Disease Suspected in Spanish Doctors Death

2010-11-26T22:17:00.001-05:00

http://www.the-gates-of-hell.com/mad-cow-disease-suspected-in-spanish-doctors-death/

The TRUTH about CJD - Its Spreading in USA

2010-11-25T23:59:00.001-05:00

http://creutzfeldt-jakob-disease.blogspot.com/

Physician Finds Relationship Between Contaminated Food & Alzheimers

2010-11-24T22:12:00.000-05:00

http://atomic5.com/physician-lawrence-broxmeyer-finds-relationship-between-contaminated-food-and-alzheimers

French Court Sets Date in Hormone Scandal Trial

2010-11-24T22:09:00.000-05:00

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5i1KJuxgf-oHWP5r6zR-wDt29RTdw?docId=CNG.fec6f3aa9abd3e72e578e9dd700205c7.c71

Gov't Worries Carcass Disposal May Contaminate Ground, Water

2010-11-24T00:54:00.002-05:00

Fenstermacher said some people are objecting to the offensive smells coming from the Dead Animal Removal (DAR) composting area located in the vicinity of Cambridge Road. A spokesperson from DAR said they use a composting process which eats up the animal in a short time. He said about a year-and-a-half ago the government became concerned that the process used by many places to dispose of dead farm animals might permit the spread of mad cow disease, so places like Valley Protein could no longer take dead farm animals, and that this was why they started their service to farmers.
DAR is working on the issue by putting in a new solar digester which will reduce the odor. DAR is a service to the public approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and licensed by the Department of Environmental Protection.

A resident living near the composting operation said that it is not a pleasant smell, but is bearable, and added that it occurs one day a week or a few days during the summer.

Fenstermacher said that the Township talked to the Amish neighbors, who like the service because it is free. Twenty to 30 animals are composted weekly. There is no limit on the permit.

http://www.tricountyrecord.com/articles/2010/11/23/news/doc4cec3cfa74dbc102383658.txt?viewmode=default

USDA Sues Dead Beat Meat Co.

2010-11-24T00:21:00.002-05:00

Eastern Livestock Co. , reported to be one of the nations largest beef suppliers, dosent pay its bils.Owes cattlemen big time;

http://newsandtribune.com/local/x1455936765/USDA-takes-official-action-against-Eastern-Livestock

Mad Cow Prions Thrive in Dirt (Even After Freeze)

2010-11-20T00:01:00.002-05:00

And it is important to remember, these silly little malformed prions DONT cook out with heat;

http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/content/view/46231/

NO meat is safe!

Nebraska Dept. of Ag Guy Falsifies Mad-Cow Records

2010-11-18T22:14:00.000-05:00

http://www.northplattebulletin.com/index.asp?show=news&action=readStory&storyID=19826&pageID=24

Brazil Reports 1st Possible Case of Mad-Cow Disease in Humans (CJD)

2010-11-18T22:11:00.001-05:00

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-11-18/brazil-reports-first-possible-case-of-mad-cow-disease-in-a-person.html

US Meat Monopoly Rule May Costs Jobs, Hurt Economy

2010-11-11T01:48:00.002-05:00

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-11-10/u-s-meat-monopoly-rule-may-cost-jobs-hurt-economy.html

US Meat "Growers,"......."Cant Beat Our Meat, but We Still Try"

Wheres the Beef? US-S. Korea Trade Talks Exclude Beef

2010-11-11T01:23:00.000-05:00

http://www.einnews.com/pr-news/221062-where-s-the-beef-u-s-south-korea-trade-talks-exclude-beef-sales

EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS - USA (40): (MICHIGAN) EQUINE

2010-11-10T15:40:00.001-05:00

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

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

Date: Mon 8 Nov 2010
Source: Kalamazoo Gazette [edited]

Equine encephalitis toll reaches 133 in south west Michigan
-----------------------------------------------------------
The state has reported a final tally for one of the worst outbreaks of
eastern equine encephalitis in 30 years -- by veterinarians' counts 133
horses were stricken, with all but 4 killed by the mosquitoborne disease,
most in south west Michigan.

At 55 confirmed EEE cases, 2010 is tied with 1981 for having the 2nd
highest number on record, said Michigan Department of Agriculture State
Veterinarian Steven Halstead. In 1980, there were 93 confirmed cases. How
many unconfirmed cases occurred in those years is unclear, Halstead said.

Why the discrepancy between 133 dead horses this summer [2010] and the
official tally of only 55? It's not that the additional 78 cases are in
question, Halstead said. It's that laboratory testing to confirm the EEE
diagnosis was not conducted in the majority of the deaths.

Veterinarians, required to report diseases such as EEE, may base their
diagnoses on clinical signs alone -- neurological impairment and, usually,
death in the case of EEE. But for the diagnosis to be confirmed, brain
tissue samples must be submitted for laboratory testing.

It's up to the horse owner to pay for the test, which can cost as much as
USD 200. There's no requirement that it be done, but without testing, that
horse's death will not be counted among the "confirmed" cases.

That galls veterinarian Jim Connell of Town and Country Veterinary Hospital
in Allegan, who said an artificially low tally misrepresents the level of
threat and may have contributed to complacency among horse owners.

An effective vaccine is available, but Connell said many horse owners have
cut back on the vaccinations available to protect their horses from
diseases such as EEE, rabies, and West Nile virus because money is tight.
"At some level it was spend money on the horse or spend money for
groceries," he said, and many horse owners took the chance that their horse
would not be exposed.

This year [2010], a huge population of mosquitoes combined with a growing
number of unprotected horses contributed to the rapid spread of the disease.

Connell said, for the sake of solid statistics and a more accurate picture
of the level of risk, he would like to see some government health agencies
share the cost of testing. "We're dealing with a federal and state mandate
to report this disease, while putting the onus of payment (for
confirmation) onto the owner --who is in this spot because he couldn't
afford to vaccinate in the 1st place," the Allegan veterinarian said.

When the 1st reports of horses stricken by EEE began emerging in Barry
County, state agriculture officials and private veterinarians began ramping
up efforts to get the word out. "We provided updates on the outbreak to the
Michigan Veterinary Medical Association, the Michigan Equine Partnership,
Michigan State University [MSU] College of Veterinary Medicine, and MSU
Extension," Halstead said. Local health departments were informed weekly
and Michigan's Emerging Diseases website was updated weekly.

Yet, "in the horse community, on the horse grapevine, this should have been
the topic of conversation and in the heat of this thing -- it wasn't,"
Connell said. "For the life of me, I don't understand why. I'm very
frustrated that the horse community didn't seem to take this seriously."

It's all hindsight now. Cold weather has killed the mosquitoes that carry
the virus, so no new cases are expected. In the end, Barry County was
hardest hit, with 43 cases either reported by veterinarians or confirmed by
the state. Most other cases were also from south west Michigan counties,
though sick horses were discovered in Eaton, Livingston, Jackson, and
Oakland counties as well. 6 horses died without a county of residence recorded.

Health officials say 3 people in Michigan were stricken with EEE this year
[2010] as well. "The take home message," Connell said, "is for God's sake,
vaccinate your horse next year -- work with your vet to make it happen."

[byline: Rosemary Parker]

--
communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[Dr Connell is right -- vaccinate! Make it happen. This is a preventable
tragedy for every owner, for the veterinarians, for the equine victim.

While the disease has waned for now, it will be back next year. - Mod.TG

The state of Michigan in the Great Lakes Region of the US can be located on
the HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map at .
The counties mentioned can be seen on the map at
. - Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]

[see also:
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (39): (NJ) 20101027.3903
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (38): (FL) equine, correction 20101022.3826
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (37): (IN) equine 20101021.3816
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (36): (NE) equine, not 20101015.3737
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (35): (FL) equine 20101015.3736
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (34): (OH,NY) equine 20101012.3698
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (33): (MI) human, equine 20101003.3587
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (32): (OH) equine 20101002.3575
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (31): (NY) equine, human 20100926.3494
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (30): (AL, NE, OH) equine 20100918.3375
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (20): (FL), fatal 20100818.2871
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (10): (MA, MI) 20100728.2529
Eastern equine encephalitis - USA: (FL) 20100527.1755]

.................sb/tg/mj/sh

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Wyoming "Cattle Growers" Oppose Increase in "Beef Promotional" Funding

2010-11-09T12:23:00.001-05:00

http://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/article_eb3aa6db-3941-5810-805c-b4ad43fde69b.html

How Mad-Cow Disease Can Escape U.S. Detection

2010-11-08T02:29:00.001-05:00

http://www.prlog.org/11040449-how-mad-cow-disease-can-escape-us-beef-detection-dr-lawrence-broxmeyer.html

Brucellosis: Ted Turner's Bison Ranch, Montana

2010-11-08T00:18:00.000-05:00

http://meatsubs.blogspot.com/2010/11/brucellosis-bovine-usa-02-montana.html

PRION DISEASE UPDATE 2010 (10)

2010-11-05T14:27:00.000-04:00

*****************************
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
1 Nov 2010 - no new vCJD cases
[2] France: Institut de Veille Sanitaire - monthly statistics as of
Fri 29 Oct 2010 - no new vCJD cases
[3] USA: National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center - data
not updated since 31 Jul 2010, no indigenous vCJD
[4] Prion disease susceptibility

******
[1] UK: National CJD Surveillance Unit - monthly statistics as of Mon
1 Nov 2010 - no new vCJD cases
Date: Mon 1 Nov 2010
Source: UK National CJD Surveillance Unit, monthly statistics [edited]

The number of deaths due to definite or probable vCJD cases remains
170. A total of 4 definite/probable patients are still alive so the
total number of definite or probable vCJD cases remains 174.

Although 3 new deaths due to vCJD were recorded in 2009 and now 3
deaths in 2010 so far, 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 3 so far in 2010.

Totals for all types of CJD cases in the UK so far in the year 2010
-------------------------------------------------------------------
During the 1st 10 months of 2010, there have been 126 referrals, 54
fatal cases of sporadic CJD, 3 fatal cases of vCJD, 2 cases of
iatrogenic CJD, 2 cases of familial CJD, and one case of GSS.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail

******
[2] France: Institut de Veille Sanitaire - monthly statistics as of
Fri 29 Oct 2010 - no new vCJD cases
Date: Fri 5 Nov 2010
Source: IVS - Maladie de Creutzfeldt-Jakob et maladies apparentees
[in French, trans. & summ. Mod.CP, edited]

During the 1st 10 months of 2010, there were 1332 referrals, 75
confirmed cases of sporadic CJD, 4 cases of familial CJD, and no
cases of iatrogenic CJD or vCJD.

A total of 25 cases of confirmed or probable vCJD have 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, during about 10 years from 1987.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail

******
[3] USA: National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center - data
not updated since 31 Jul 2010, no indigenous vCJD
Date: Fri 5 Nov 2010
Source: US National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center [edited]

No update since 31 Jul 2010.

During the 7 month period 1 Jan 2010 to 31 Jul 2010, there were 204
referrals, 124 of whom were classified as prion disease, comprising
85 cases of sporadic CJD, 20 of familial CJD, and no cases of
iatrogenic CJD or vCJD.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail

******
[4] Prion disease susceptibility
Date: Mon 1 Nov 2010
Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the USA
(PNAS) [edited]

Ref: MQ Khan, B Sweeting, VK Mulligan, et al: Prion disease
susceptibility is affected by beta-structure folding propensity and
local side-chain interactions in PrP. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2010
(Epub ahead of print); doi:10.1073/pnas.1005267107
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract
--------
Prion diseases occur when the normally alpha-helical prion protein
(PrP) converts to a pathological beta-structured state with prion
infectivity (PrPSc). Exposure to PrPSc from other mammals can
catalyze this conversion. Evidence from experimental and accidental
transmission of prions suggests that mammals vary in their prion
disease susceptibility: hamsters and mice show relatively high
susceptibility, whereas rabbits, horses, and dogs show low susceptibility.

Using a novel approach to quantify conformational states of PrP by
circular dichroism (CD), we find that prion susceptibility tracks
with the intrinsic propensity of mammalian PrP to convert from the
native, alpha-helical state to a cytotoxic beta-structured state,
which exists in a monomer-octamer equilibrium. It has been
controversial whether beta-structured monomers exist at acidic pH;
sedimentation equilibrium and dual-wavelength CD evidence is
presented for an equilibrium between a beta-structured monomer and
octamer in some acidic pH conditions.

Our X-ray crystallographic structure of rabbit PrP has identified a
key helix-capping motif implicated in the low prion disease
susceptibility of rabbits. Removal of this capping motif increases
the beta-structure folding propensity of rabbit PrP to match that of
PrP from mouse, a species more susceptible to prion disease.

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[This research provides a physical explanation of how changes in the
structure of the prion protein can affect the prion disease
susceptibility of different mammals. - Mod.CP]

[see also:
Prion disease update 2010 (09) 20101006.3622
Prion disease update 2010 (08) 20100911.3285
Prion disease update 2010 (07) 20100809.2720
Prion disease update 2010 (06) 20100706.2248
Prion disease update 2010 (05) 20100507.1488
Prion disease update 2010 (04) 20100405.1091
Prion disease update 2010 (03) 20100304.0709
Prion disease update 2010 (02) 20100205.0386
Prion disease update 2010 20100107.0076]
...................................cp/mj/mpp

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and its associated service providers shall not be held
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or archived material.
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Schriver: The Mad Cow - Alzheimer Connection

2010-11-02T23:33:00.000-04:00

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rita-altman-rn/five-reasons-why-you-must_b_773697.html

Mad Cow Making a Come-back in USA? Ha Ha Ha It Never Went Away!

2010-11-02T01:00:00.000-04:00

http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL1010/S00181/is-us-beef-at-risk-of-mad-cow-disease-again.htm

Big-Horn Die Off Attributed to Domestic Sheep

2010-11-01T13:33:00.000-04:00

http://www.cast-science.org/websiteUploads/publicationPDFs/Sheep%20Pasteurellosis%20Commentary156.pdf

USDA LIES about Brucellisos Tranmission: Blames Buffalo for Infecting Cows

2010-11-01T13:12:00.002-04:00

Everyone who knows anything about disease transmission between wild and domestic animals knows it is the DOMESTICS that endanger the wild ones.

USDA is using this PHONEY report to kill off thousands of buffalo;
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/animal_dis_spec/cattle/downloads/cattle-bison.pdf

When the better course of action would be to get the damn welfare ranchers privately owned cows off of our public lands. Not only would it greatly help to stop the spread of this dreaded disease, but would SAVE our Nation nearly a billion dollars a year (cost to public to maintain the Public Grazing Program)

BRUCELLOSIS, BOVINE - USA: (WYOMING)

2010-11-01T12:46:00.003-04:00

************************************
A ProMED-mail post (My annotations in red)

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

Date: Wed 27 Oct 2010
Source: trib.com [edited]

According to the state veterinarian 3 cows from a northwest Wyoming
cattle herd have initially tested positive for brucellosis.

Dr Jim Logan said in a media release this morning [27 Oct 2010] his
agency was notified by the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory that
blood from the 3 cows reacted to tests for brucellosis. The cows are
from a single herd in Park County.

Brucellosis is a bacterial disease that can cause cattle, elk, and
bison to abort their calves.

Scientists believe the area around Yellowstone National Park in
northwest Wyoming contains the last remaining reservoirs of the
disease. The disease can be transmitted from wildlife to cattle.

(I believe it is the other way around, see wiki; Brucellosis in the Greater Yellowstone area:

"Wild bison and elk in the Greater Yellowstone Area (GYA) are the last remaining reservoir of Brucella abortus in the U.S. The recent transmission of brucellosis from cattle to elk in Idaho and Wyoming illustrates how brucellosis in domestic cattle around the GYA may negatively affect wildlife. Eliminating brucellosis from this area is a challenge, because these animals are on public land and there are many viewpoints involved in the management of these animals."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brucellosis

Logan said reactors on blood tests do not absolutely prove that
cattle are infected with brucellosis. However, Logan said the
reactors were very strong indicators that the likelihood of infection is high.

Tissue and blood samples were collected from the 3 cows and submitted
to the state lab for a full diagnostic evaluation. Tests results may
take up to 2 weeks to complete.

The presence of the disease within the herd -- if confirmed through
further testing -- could result in additional testing requirements
and strict adherence to quarantine procedures to keep Wyoming from
losing its federal brucellosis-free status.

[Byline: Jeff Gearino]

--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail

[This area around Cody, Wyoming is adjacent to Yellowstone National
Park, where spillover from infected bison and elk herds has been a
major road block in the effort to eradicate brucellosis from the
national cattle herd. The area can be seen on the
HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map at .

See

for a nice overview of the problem by USDA APHIS (Animal Plant Health
Inspection Service). - Mod.PC]

[see also:
Brucellosis, cervid - USA (05): Yellowstone 20100427.1352
Brucellosis, cervid - USA (04): Yellowstone 20100425.1340
Brucellosis, cervid - USA (03): (Gtr. Yellowstone Ecosystem 20100401.1048
Brucellosis, cervid - USA: (WY) corr. 20100212.0501
Brucellosis, cervid - USA: (WY) 20100211.0480
2009
----
Brucellosis, bovine - USA: (ID) 20091215.4249
Brucellosis, cervids - USA (02): (WY) 20090220.0718
Brucellosis, cervids - USA: (MT) 20090117.0196
2008
----
Brucellosis, bovine - USA (08): (MT), loss of status 20080905.2770
Brucellosis, bovine - USA (07): (WY) 20080807.2427
Brucellosis, bovine - USA (06): (WY) ex elk 20080727.2288
Brucellosis, bovine - USA (03): (WY) 20080619.1907]
...................................pc/mj/mpp

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CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE, CERVID - USA (11): (WYOMING)

2010-10-31T22:40:00.001-04:00

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

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

Date: 25 Oct 2010
Source: Wyoming Game and Fish Department [edited]

Two deer harvested on 15 Oct 2010 in deer hunt areas 47 and 51 in the
Bighorn Basin have tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD),
a brain disease known to affect some deer, elk and moose. One deer, a
mule deer buck, was harvested in area 47 in the Durphy Gulch area.
The other CWD positive, a white-tailed doe, was harvested in area 51
near the Horse Creek/Shell Valley Road.

Personnel at the Wyoming Game and Fish Department(WGFD) Laboratory
analyzed samples taken as part of the department's annual CWD survey
and discovered positive results for the 2 deer.

WGFD wildlife disease specialist Hank Edwards said the discovery of
CWD in those areas was not unexpected since there have been positive
tests in animals in surrounding areas 122, 125, 41, 46, 27 and 23.

After a review of available scientific data, the World Health
Organization in December 1999 stated: "There is currently no evidence
that CWD in cervidae (deer and elk) is transmitted to humans." In
2004, Dr. Ermias Belay of the Center for Disease Control said: "The
lack of evidence of a link between CWD transmission and unusual cases
of CJD (Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a human prion disease) despite
several epidemiological investigations suggests that the risk, if
any, of transmission of CWD to humans is low." Nonetheless, to avoid
risk, both organizations say parts or products from any animal that
looks sick and/or tests positive for CWD should not be eaten.

For more information on chronic wasting disease, visit the Chronic
Wasting Disease Alliance website at .

--
Communicated by:
Terry S. Singeltary Sr.

[It is the fall season when hunting of cervids occurs. As hunter
surveillance programs are underway and tests are being conducted, it
is likely that there will be many more such reports from various
places across North America coming out soon.

Wyoming is a state known to have CWD, so this occurrence does not
seem surprising, nor does it seem to have moved into zones in the
state where it has not previously been detected. - Mod.TG]

[see also:
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (10): (WY)20101022.3822
Chronic wasting disease, cervids - USA (09): (SD) 20100521.1687
Chronic wasting disease, cervids - Canada (02): (SK) susp. 20100518.1629
Chronic wasting disease, cervids - USA (08): (ND) 1st rep. 20100323.0924
Chronic wasting disease, cervids - Canada: (AB) 20100320.0888
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (07): (KS) 20100313.0814
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (06): (UT) 1st elk 20100313.0810
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (06): (KS) 20100312.0801
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (05): (KS) 20100311.0790
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (04): (KS) 20100306.0741
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (03): (MO) 1st rep. 20100303.0697
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA (02): (VA) 20100124.0261
Chronic wasting disease, cervid - USA: (WV) 2009 20100120.0224]
............................................tg/msp/dk

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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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Mad Cow Proteins: Size Matters

2010-10-30T02:19:00.000-04:00

http://holykaw.alltop.com/size-matters-for-mad-cow-proteins

Bringing Protiens into the Fold May Prevent Disease

2010-10-30T02:17:00.000-04:00

http://www.onlinenews.com.pk/details.php?id=170543

Studying Our Little Mal-Formed Prion Friends : Update

2010-10-29T22:52:00.001-04:00

http://www.sciencecentric.com/news/10102919-size-protein-aggregates-not-abundance-drives-spread-prion-based-disease.html

Temple (of Blood) Grandin Lecture

2010-10-04T10:54:00.000-04:00

Greetings,

Fresh off an award-winning movie about her amazing life story, famed animal behaviorist Dr. Temple Grandin joins us on Open Mic to talk about animal welfare conditions in U.S. agriculture. Recently named one of the world's 100 most influential people by Time Magazine, Grandin, a professor of animal science at Colorado State University, says she wants to reform livestock and poultry handling and behavior practices on farms and ranches and in processing plants. She provides examples of industry players who are doing what she describes as the “right things” by animals and puts a percentage on the numbers that are not. The author of over 400 published articles within the field of animal sciences weighs in on The Humane Society of the United States' undercover investigations and makes a clear distinction between animal welfare and animal rights. The interview runs about 13 minutes and can be found at http://www.agri-pulse.com/
http://www.agri-pulse.com/>

Sara R. Wyant

Editor

Agri-Pulse

630-247-7142 (cell)

573-873-0802 (Camdenton, MO. office)

202-547-5588 (Washington, DC office)

www.Agri-Pulse.com

EEE / NY / Equine Infection / Human Death

2010-09-27T09:59:00.002-04:00

EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS - USA (31): (NEW YORK), EQUINE, HUMAN

***********************************************

A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the

International Society for Infectious Diseases

Date: 24 Sep 2010

Source: Syracuse.com [edited]

Two more horses in Onondaga County have tested positive for eastern

equine encephalitis, the county Health Department announced Friday

[24 Sep 2010] afternoon.

The horses, which were kept on Lamson Road in Lysander, became ill

and died on 17 Sep 2010, officials said.

So far, 3 cases of EEE have been confirmed this year [2010] in the

county, officials said. The 1st horse, which was stabled on Oswego

Road in Lysander, was euthanized on 10 Sep 2010.

An Onondaga County resident infected with the virus died earlier this

month [September 2010], the 4th human EEE death in Central New York since 1971.

County health officials Friday [24 Sep 2010] also announced that no

EEE was found among mosquitoes trapped last week and tested this week.

Although EEE cases are rare, the virus is one of the most serious

mosquito-borne diseases. About 1/3rd of people infected with it die.

Most survivors suffer significant brain damage. There is no specific

treatment for EEE, nor is there a human vaccine.

Symptoms can range from a mild flu-like illness to sudden fever,

muscle pains and a headache that's often followed quickly by seizures

and coma. Symptoms can appear within 5-15 days after the bite of an

infected mosquito. EEE is diagnosed through blood or spinal fluid.

Fresh water swamps like the Cicero Swamp are breeding grounds for

EEE-infected mosquitoes. The county conducted aerial spraying of the

swamp earlier this month [September 2010].

Dr. Cynthia Morrow, county health commissioner, urged people to

continue to remain vigilant and to take measures to reduce exposure

to mosquitoes.

She advised residents to use insect repellent, wear long-sleeve

shirts and long pants outdoors, and refrain from outdoor activity

during prime mosquito feeding times at dawn and dusk.

--

Communicated by:

ProMED-mail

[Although this article states that EEE cases are rare, clearly that

is in humans. This year [2010] has seen many equines affected with

this mosquito-borne disease. Mosquitoes transmit the disease to

horses and to people. Horses cannot transmit the disease to other

horses or to humans.

Horses can be given a preventative vaccine, and owners should

consider a spray or wipe-on product manufactured for the horse to

keep flies and mosquitoes off of the animals.

Human beings are encouraged to use mosquito repellant, avoid the

mosquito-prime times of dusk and dawn, to wear long sleeves when out

at these times, and to clean up any location of standing water that

may be a source of mosquito breeding. - Mod.TG]

[It is noteworthy that earlier this month (September 2010), there was

a human fatality from EEE in Onondaga County NY (see prior

ProMED-mail posting Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (27): (NY)

human 20100905.3188), and late last month (August 2010), there was a

report on an equine case of EEE in neighboring Oswego County NY.

For a map of New York State showing counties, see

. - Mod.MPP]

[see also;

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (30): (AL, NE, OH) equine 20100918.3375

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (29): (MI) 20100914.3311

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (28): (MI,FL) 20100907.3202

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (27): (NY) human 20100905.3188

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (26): (MI, FL) equine, human 20100901.3115

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (25): (MA) human 20100830.3089

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (24): (NY, MI) equine, cervid 20100827.3045

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (23): (MI) 20100824.2975

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (22): (VA, MA) 20100820.2911

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (21): (GA) equine 20100819.2893

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (20): (FL), fatal 20100818.2871

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (19): (MI) equine, human susp 20100817.2850

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (18): (MA) equine, human 20100816.2836

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (17): (FL) equine 20100815.2813

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (16): (MI) 20100814.2790

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (15): (FL) sentinel avian 20100810.2728

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (14): (FL), equine, sentinel avian

20100807.2691

Eastern equine encephalitis, equine - USA (13) (FL, MA) 20100806.2675

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (12): (MA) 20100803.2620

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (11): (FL) fatal, human, equine 20100731.2569

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (10): (MA, MI) 20100728.2529

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (09): (FL) fatal 20100723.2469

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (08): (LA) 20100716.2374

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (07): (FL) 20100715.2363

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (06): (FL, GA) 20100710.2312

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (05): (FL) 20100708.2274

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (04): (FL) 20100630.2178

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (03): (FL) 20100627.2146

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA (02): (FL) sentinel avian 20100623.2101

Eastern equine encephalitis - USA: (FL) 20100527.1755]

.........................................sb/tg/msp/mpp

*##########################################################*

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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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Diseased Cattle Graveyard Declared Safe for Development

2010-09-25T22:07:00.000-04:00

ANTHRAX, HISTORIC GRAVESITE RUSSIA (MOSCOW)

*********************************************

A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the

International Society for Infectious Diseases

Date: 25 Sep 2010

Source: Pgorod [edited]

In cattle cemetery built sports complex

---------------------------------------

Specialists VyatGU in Russia have proved that the

territory of the former anthrax cattle cemetery poses no danger to residents.

The green area of 1500 square meters [1794 square

yards] on the streets of Moscow, opposite the

House of press "Vyatka," was ownerless for 80

years. The reason: Formerly it had been a burial

site for diseased animals. Two years ago, experts

at the Vyatka State University decided to

investigate what dangers this land presented.

The scientists took 180 soil samples, which were

then sent to the Saratov Institute "Microbe."

Anthrax spores were not detected and so the chief

sanitary doctor Gennady Onishchenko decided to

reduce the sanitary protection zone about the

cattle cemetery from 1500 to 50 sq. meters [60

square yards]. The scientists have proposed to

preserve the 50 sq. meters, and the remaining

1450 sq. meters to be used for the construction

of socially significant University structures.

The university needs a brand new "Polytechnical" sports complex.

Construction on the remaining cattle cemetery

site includes fencing and monitoring conditions.

The action plan includes, inter alia, the

creation of embankments and asphalt. All this is

intended to strengthen the security guarantees

for the facility, said Julia Ageyeva, the spokesperson for VyatGU.

Work on former cattle cemetery site will begin

immediately after the signing of the tripartite

plan between the Vyatka State University,

Rosselkhoznadzor and Rospotrebnadzor. The draft

for area development is being prepared.

[Byline: Helen Siyanovich]

--

Communicated by:

Sabine Zentis

Castleview Pedigree English Longhorns, Gut Laach

52385 Nideggen, Germany

[Over the past 10 years there have been scattered

reports about this historic cattle grave, but

little of any meaning. It is fortunate that it

appears to be safe for development. - Mod.MHJ]

[see also:

Anthrax, livestock - Russia (Chechnya, Moscow, Penza) 20060223.0587]

....................mhj/ejp/mpp

*##########################################################*

************************************************************

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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Is Our Gov't Killing Our Cows? - Anthrax as a Bio-Weapon

2010-09-16T02:20:00.002-04:00

http://www.iacsp.com/a9.html

Bovine TB Epidemic in UK Results in Un-Fettered Badger Kills

2010-09-15T22:14:00.001-04:00

BOVINE TUBERCULOSIS - UK (03): NEW CONTROL PROGRAM

***********************************************

A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the

International Society for Infectious Diseases

[1]

Date: Wed 15 Sep 2010

Source: Defra press release [edited]

Proposals for additional measures to help control bovine tuberculosis

in cattle were published for public consultation today [15 Sep 2010]

by Agriculture Minister Jim Paice.

Defra is consulting on a proposal to issue licences to farmers and

landowners who wish to cull and/or vaccinate badgers at their own

expense. These licences would be subject to strict licence criteria

to ensure badger control is done effectively, humanely and with high

regard for animal welfare.

Jim Paice said: "Bovine TB is having a devastating effect on many

farm businesses and families, especially in the West and South West

of England. Last year [2009], 25 000 cattle were slaughtered because

of the disease, and it cost the taxpayer over GBP 63 million [USD

98.4 million] in England alone."

"We can't go on like this. It's clear that the current approach has

failed to stop the spread of this terrible disease. We need to take

urgent action to halt its spread. No single measure will be enough to

tackle the disease on its own. But the science is clear: there is no

doubt that badgers are a significant reservoir for the disease, and

without taking action to control the disease in them, it will

continue to spread. No country in the world has eradicated bovine TB

without dealing with the reservoir in wildlife. That's why I'm today

[15 Sep 2010] launching a consultation on how we can tackle the

disease in badgers. A decision on our approach will be taken

following the consultation. I intend to publish a comprehensive and

balanced bovine TB eradication programme early in 2011."

The consultation proposes issuing licences under the Protection of

Badgers Act 1992 to enable farmers and landowners to cull badgers, at

their own expense. Under the government's new proposal, they will be

able to use vaccination either on its own or in combination with

culling. Licences would be subject to strict criteria to ensure

culling is carried out effectively, humanely and with high regard to

animal welfare. They will also be asked to explain how they intend to

minimise the negative effect in the surrounding area identified by

the Randomised Badger Culling Trial (RBCT). Farmers and landowners

are already able to apply for licences to vaccinate badgers.

Culling will only be allowed in areas where there is a high incidence

of bovine TB in cattle.

Jim Paice added: "I have looked carefully at the potential for using

badger vaccination. Based on veterinary advice and the available

scientific evidence, the government's assessment is that vaccination

on its own will not reduce disease as quickly as culling. However, by

using it in combination with culling, it is possible to maximise the

effectiveness of badger control in reducing bovine TB in cattle."

"Cattle measures will remain central to the government's bovine TB

programme, though some changes are planned to ensure that they are

better targeted on the basis of disease risk. Most existing cattle

measures will remain firmly in place; in some cases, controls will be

tightened where we know there is a higher disease risk, and in some

cases, burdens on farmers will be reduced, but only where we are

confident that this will not increase disease risk." Jim Paice

confirmed that pre-movement testing will remain in place following a

review and announced some minor changes to TB testing that will take

effect immediately.

Further details can be found via

.

Notes

1. The consultation closes on 8 Dec 2010 and can be found at

.

2. Badger culling has the potential to reduce bovine TB in cattle by

rapidly reducing the overall number of infected badgers, thus

reducing the rate of transmission of the disease to cattle. The main

body of evidence on the impact badger culling has on incidence of

bovine TB in cattle is the Randomised Badger Culling Trial (RBCT),

which took place between 1998 and 2007. The results of this major

government-funded trial demonstrate that badger culling, done on a

sufficient scale, in a widespread, coordinated and efficient way, and

over a sustained period of time, would reduce the incidence of bovine

TB in cattle in high incidence areas. No other country in the world

with a similar reservoir of bovine TB in wildlife has eradicated TB

from cattle without stringent wildlife control measures.

3. The RBCT showed that incidence of TB in cattle on land immediately

surrounding the culling area increased initially. Over the course of

the trial, this negative effect tailed off, and the latest RBCT

analysis shows that the level of TB in cattle in the surrounding area

is comparable with the un-culled survey-only areas. However, measures

can be put in place to mitigate the negative effects seen in the

surrounding area, such as setting a required minimum area over which

culling must take place and making use of barriers such as coastlines

and major rivers, to limit badger movement. Also badgers in the

surrounding area could be vaccinated.

4. Badger control licences would be subject to strict criteria to

ensure that measures are carried out effectively, humanely, and with

high regard to animal welfare. This will include a requirement that

any culling must take place over a minimum area of 150 sq/km so we

can be confident it will have a net beneficial effect. This means

that we would expect to receive licence applications from groups of

farmers and landowners rather than individuals. Applicants will also

need to demonstrate that they have considered taking further steps to

minimise the potential detrimental effect at the edge of a culling

area.

5. Licences will only permit culling by cage-trapping and shooting,

and by shooting free-running badgers, carried out by trained,

competent operators with appropriate firearms licences. Defra ruled

out gassing and snaring on the basis that we do not have sufficient

evidence to demonstrate that they are humane and effective methods of

culling.

6. The government will fund the cost of the licensing operation and

monitor the effects of the policy. We expect the farming industry to

bear the direct costs of badger control.

7. We will continue to look over the next few months at: Changes to

TB terminology; strengthening controls on high risk unconfirmed

breakdowns; extending the use of gamma interferon testing to all

confirmed breakdown herds in the 2-year testing areas; providing

better support for TB restricted farmers by enhancing their options

for selling surplus stock.

8. In 2009/10, controlling bovine TB cost the taxpayer GBP 63 million

[USD 98.4 million] in England. An additional GBP 8.9 million [USD

13.9 million] was spent on research.

--

Communicated by:

Sabine Zentis

Gut Laach

52385 Nideggen, Germany

******

[2]

Date: Wed 15 Sep 010

Source: Written Ministerial Statement [edited]

Bovine Tuberculosis, by the Minister of State for Agriculture and

Food (Jim Paice)

-----------------------------------------------

Bovine TB is having a devastating effect on many farm businesses and

families. The situation is steadily getting worse; the number of

animals slaughtered each year is unacceptable, and more farms are

affected as the disease spreads across the country. The area of

England affected by bovine TB has grown from isolated pockets in the

late 1980s to cover large areas of the West and South West of

England. 6.4 percent of herds in England were under bovine TB

restriction at the end of 2009. The figure was 14.3 percent in the

South West. In 2009, over 25 000 cattle were slaughtered due to TB in

England.

The cost to government of controlling bovine TB in England was over

GBP 63 million [USD 98.4] in 2009/10 (excluding scientific research).

These costs are rising year by year, and there is a strong case for

early effective action to turn this around. Furthermore, this has

been raised as a concern by others across Europe, and we are under

increasing pressure from the European Commission to strengthen our

controls.

Eradicating bovine TB is our long term goal, but it is clear that the

approach to date has failed. We need to take additional measures

urgently to stop the disease spreading and to start to reverse the

rising trend. The farming industry, veterinary profession and

government need to work in partnership to achieve this.

There is no single solution to tackling bovine TB; we need to use

every tool in the toolbox. Cattle measures will remain the foundation

of our bovine TB control programme, but we will not succeed in

eliminating the disease in cattle unless we also tackle the disease

in badgers. The science is clear; there is no doubt that badgers are

a reservoir of the disease and transmit bovine TB to cattle. No other

country in the world with a similar reservoir in wildlife has

eradicated TB from cattle without stringent wildlife control measures.

That is why the Coalition Government has committed, as part of a

package of measures, to develop affordable options for a

carefully-managed and science-led policy of badger control in areas

with high and persistent levels of bovine TB in cattle. I am today

[15 Sep 2010] launching a consultation on the government's proposed

approach to badger control in England.

Badger culling has the potential to reduce bovine TB in cattle by

rapidly reducing the overall number of infected badgers, thus

reducing the rate of transmission of the disease to cattle. The main

body of evidence on the impact badger culling has on incidence of

bovine TB in cattle is the Randomised Badger Culling Trial (RBCT)

which took place between 1998 and 2007. The results of this major

government-funded trial demonstrate that badger culling, done on a

sufficient scale, in a widespread, coordinated and efficient way, and

over a sustained period of time, would reduce the incidence of bovine

TB in cattle in high incidence areas. Analysis of the results

covering the whole period from the beginning of culling to July 2010

show that the beneficial effects of culling persist over this time

and that the initial detrimental effect seen at the edge of the

culled area had disappeared by 12-18 months after culling stopped.

The proposal on which I am launching the consultation today [15 Sep

2010] is to issue licences under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992

to enable farmers and landowners to cull badgers, at their own

expense. Under existing arrangements, farmers and landowners are

already able to apply for licences to vaccinate badgers. Under the

government's new proposal, they will be able to use vaccination

either on its own or in combination with culling. The government's

proposal will empower farmers to take control of reducing the risks

of transmission from the wildlife reservoir at the local level.

Licences would be subject to strict criteria to ensure that the

badger control measures are carried out effectively, humanely, and

with high regard to animal welfare. This will include a requirement

that any culling must take place over a minimum area of 150 square km

so we can be confident it will have a net beneficial effect. This

means that we would expect to receive licence applications from

groups of farmers and landowners rather than individuals. Applicants

will also need to demonstrate that they have considered taking

further steps to minimise the potential detrimental effect at the

edge of a culling area. Culling licences will only permit culling by

cage-trapping and shooting, and by shooting free-running badgers,

carried out by trained, competent operators with the appropriate

licences. We have ruled out gassing and snaring on the basis that we

do not currently have sufficient evidence to demonstrate that they

are humane and effective methods of culling.

I have looked carefully at the potential for using badger

vaccination. Based on veterinary advice and the available scientific

evidence my assessment is that vaccination will not be as effective

as culling in quickly lowering the weight of infection in the badger

population. Vaccination does not guarantee that all badgers are fully

protected from infection, and it would take some time to develop

immunity within a local population. In addition, the fact that the

1st injectable badger vaccine was only licensed in March 2010 means

that there is only very limited experience of using vaccination in

the field and no hard evidence on the contribution badger vaccination

would make to reducing the disease in cattle. However, vaccination is

still likely to reduce disease risk and have greater disease control

benefits than taking no action to tackle bovine TB in badgers. In

addition, when used in combination with culling, vaccination could

help to mitigate the perturbation effects of cul!

ling.

The government's highest priority is to reduce the deficit, and it is

vital that any new policy is affordable. This is why we expect the

farming industry to bear the direct costs of badger control.

Government will fund the licensing operation and monitor the impacts

of the policy.

I do not approach these issues lightly. No one wants to kill badgers,

but the scientific evidence and veterinary advice clearly suggests

that this is the quickest and most effective way to bring down the

weight of infection in the badger population and in turn reduce the

rate of transmission of bovine TB to cattle. We also don't want to

see culling for longer than is necessary, and we intend to review how

the policy is working after 4 years.

I have met with the Badger Trust and separately with other interested

stakeholders to explain the evidence and rationale behind the

proposal. All have been offered the opportunity to discuss the

consultation in further detail with Defra.

The consultation is available on Defra's website

()

from today [15 Sep 2010] and will close on 8 Dec 2010. A decision on

this policy will be made early in 2011, taking account of views

provided during this consultation and the available scientific and

economic evidence.

The consultation document also highlights that we are planning a

number of changes to existing cattle measures to ensure that they are

better targeted on the basis of disease risk. Most existing cattle

measures will remain firmly in place; in some cases, we will be

looking to tighten controls where we know there is a higher disease

risk; and in some cases we will be looking to reduce burdens on

farmers, but only where we are confident that this will not increase

disease risk.

I am today [15 Sep 2010] publishing the report of a review of

pre-movement testing which is available on the Defra website

().

This has concluded that the current policy has been successful in

reducing bovine TB spread, provided a significant benefit for the

taxpayer and a net benefit for the farming industry. The pre-movement

testing policy will, therefore, remain in place, though we plan to

look again at the current exemptions to see whether they are still

necessary.

We will be making some minor changes to TB testing with immediate

effect. These include reducing the testing of new and reformed herds,

stopping the testing of young calves, rationalising post-breakdown

testing in low-risk herds where bovine TB is not confirmed and

rationalising the testing of herds neighbouring a confirmed TB

breakdown. These changes will reduce costs to the taxpayer and the

burden on farmers without increasing disease risk, and will ensure we

are not gold-plating EU legal requirements.

Over the next few months, I also intend to make changes to TB

terminology, strengthen controls on high risk unconfirmed breakdowns,

reduce the number of tracing tests and extend the use of gamma

interferon testing to all confirmed breakdown herds in the 2 yearly

testing areas. And I will ensure better support for TB restricted

cattle farmers by enhancing their options for selling surplus stock.

Further details of these changes will be announced in due course.

The Coalition Government is committed to dealing with this terrible

disease and reducing its burden on farmers and the taxpayer as

quickly as possible. A decision on our approach will be taken

following the consultation on badger control being launched today [15

Sep 2010]. I intend to publish a comprehensive and balanced bovine TB

eradication programme early in 2011.

--

Communicated by:

Sabine Zentis

Gut Laach

52385 Nideggen, Germany

******

[3]

Date: Wed 15 Sep 2010

Source: The Telegraph [edited]

Allowing farmers to cull badgers on their land was never going to be

a popular political decision, and it's no surprise that the new

government has made the move at this early stage of parliament: an

election is sufficiently far away that much of the popular disquiet

will have calmed down by then.

The outcry against badger culling is not based on the threat to the

species: there's no shortage of badgers in the United Kingdom. Recent

estimates have put the population at 250 000 adults, with around 172

000 cubs being born each spring. The anger is based instead on an

understandable concern for the individual animals rather than any

conservation-based risk to the species.

The plans have been made after a sharp rise in tuberculosis in

cattle, which is thought to be spread by badgers. But how big a

problem is bovine TB? Historically, the main issue has been the risk

to humans, not to animals. In the 1930's, 2500 people were dying

annually from the disease. Around 9000 people are currently infected

with TB every year in the UK, but most of these cases are now caused

by the human TB bug (_Mycobacterium tuberculosis_). The government

bovine TB control strategy has been highly effective, with less than

one per cent of all confirmed cases of TB in humans now due to

infection with _Mycobacterium bovis_ (Bovine TB). Yet the disease has

proven stubbornly difficult to eradicate completely from the national

herd, and in recent years, the incidence has been increasing.

There's been huge controversy over the role of badgers in the spread

of bovine TB (bTB), with successive studies producing apparently

contradictory results. Yes, badgers are definitely involved in

spreading the disease, but no, killing them does not always improve

the situation. If healthy badgers are killed in a TB-free area,

infected badgers may wander into the newly vacated niche, bringing TB

with them. Badger-lovers argue that this means that any culling of

badgers is not justified. Others reach a different conclusion: if

badger culling is carried out, it just needs to be planned carefully

so that it doesn't make things worse.

Over a year ago, the British Veterinary Association established a new

policy approving of the culling of badgers in specific circumstances,

based on their experts' best assessment of all the evidence

available. The BVA justified its decision with logical bullet points,

paraphrased as follows:

1. The continuing spread of bTB within cattle and wildlife has an

unacceptable impact on animal health and welfare and has the

potential for being a risk to public health.

2. Cost-effective control and eradication of bTB from cattle and

wildlife populations must be the ultimate aim. Further action must be

taken immediately to reverse the increasing prevalence of TB in

cattle.

3. Control measures in cattle must be accompanied by simultaneous and

coordinated measures in badgers and other wildlife and susceptible

farmed species.

4. In certain circumstances, targeted and managed badger culling is

necessary in carefully selected areas where badgers are regarded as a

significant contributor to the persistent presence of bTB. The

methods employed by this control must be humane.

The danger of today's headlines ("Farmers to get all clear to cull

badgers") is that an uncontrolled anti-badger pogrom may be

unleashed. Healthy badgers may be killed in areas without TB, leading

to the inwards migration of TB-carrying badgers from neighbouring

areas.

If the unsavoury task of killing badgers has to be done, it must only

be done in a calculated, careful way with close veterinary

supervision. And the results must be monitored, so that if, after

all, it is not effective, it must be stopped.

In the meantime, efforts need to continue to produce an effective

oral vaccine for badgers; once this is available, old Brock can

finally be left to live in peace.

[Byline: Pete Wedderburn]

--

Communicated by:

ProMED-mail

[Subscribers are referred to the 8 Apr 2009 Final Report of the

Bovine TB Advisory Group, presented to UK's Minister for Farming and

the Environment, and the chief veterinary officer for Defra,

available at

.

The conclusions (page 4) included the following point 8, with which

we fully concurred (see archived 20090707.2443):

"Given the current rate of spread of TB, we are concerned there may

be over-reliance on a future vaccination programme (cattle and

badgers); this should not negate the urgent need for measures to

tackle the problem now." - Mod.AS]

[see also:

Bovine tuberculosis - UK: (England), wild boar 20100522.1703

Bovine tuberculosis - UK: (England) sheep 20100319.0879

2009

----

Bovine tuberculosis, human - UK: (England) 20090808.2815

Bovine tuberculosis - UK (05): (England) alpaca 20090730.2667

Bovine tuberculosis - UK (04): badger vaccination 20090707.2443

Bovine tuberculosis - UK (03): increased incidence 20090514.1809

Bovine tuberculosis - UK, New Zealand: vaccination 20090325.1160

Bovine tuberculosis - UK (02): (Wales) 20090323.1143

Tuberculosis, bovine - UK: (02) 20090320.1121

Tuberculosis, bovine - UK: (Wales) 20090107.0066

2008

----

Bovine tuberculosis, feline - UK (02) 20081126.3722

Bovine tuberculosis - UK: increased incidence 20081123.3696

Bovine tuberculosis, domestic animals - UK (03): 2005-2006 20081114.3594

Bovine tuberculosis, domestic animals - UK (02) 20081112.3565

Bovine tuberculosis, domestic animals - UK 20081111.3551

Bovine tuberculosis, feline - UK 20081005.3141

Bovine tuberculosis, human, canine - UK: (England) (02) 20080927.3054

Bovine tuberculosis, human, canine - UK: (England) 20080903.2751

Bovine tuberculosis, caprine - UK: (Wales) 20080723.2229

Bovine tuberculosis - UK, Ireland, Netherlands ex UK 20080718.2186

2006

----

Bovine tuberculosis, human - UK (England) (02) 20061015.2967

Bovine tuberculosis, human - UK (England) 20061009.2896

2004

----

Bovine tuberculosis, human - UK (Gloucestershire) (02) 20040716.1930

Bovine tuberculosis, human - UK (Gloucestershire) 20040714.1890]

................................................arn/msp/lm

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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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Russia Dumps 200 Tonnes of Anthrax Tainted Horsemeat

2010-09-14T23:02:00.002-04:00

ANTHRAX, HUMAN, EQUINE - RUSSIA (02): (OMSK) DUMPLINGS DUMPED

*************************************************************

A ProMED-mail post

ProMED-mail is a program of the

International Society for Infectious Diseases

Date: 14 Sep 2010

Source: Itar-Tass [edited]

http://www.itar-tass.com/eng/level2.html?NewsID=15489745&PageNum=0

Some 200 tons of convenience foods to be disposed over anthrax threat

---------------------------------------------------------------------

About 200 tons of convenience foods that might contain anthrax

bacillus will be disposed of in Russia's cities of Omsk,

Khanty-Mansiisk, Tver, Surgut, and others.

Chief sanitarian doctor for Russia's Omsk region Alexander Kriga on

Monday [13 Sep 2010] ordered [the disposal] of more than 195 tons of

meat-stuffed convenience foods produced in the period from 13 Jul

through 6 Aug 2010 by the Darina company and 2 more private

enterprises. The companies used horse meat bought from the Aitenov

farm, where anthrax cases were reported among horses. Moreover, 6

farm workers were reported to catch the disease, and one of them died.

According to Kriga, subject to disposal will also [cover] prepared

foods made from meats other than horse meat but manufactured within

the same time span and with the use of the same equipment.

"Practically all our resolutions are challenged at courts but the

claimants lose every one of them," he noted.

--

Communicated by:

ProMED-mail

[Back in late July/early August 2010 some 127 people were under

observation and preventive prophylaxis, and 6 were hospitalized with

one death. Then the Russian press mentioned some 2.5 metric tons of

horse meat had been identified as possibly contaminated. Products

manufactured between 13 Jul and 28 Jul 2010 were then identified for

destruction. Plus 14.3 tons had been shipped to Nizhnevartovsk

[Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Region], about 11 tons to Tver and

Khanty-Mansiysk, and 500 pounds to Moscow. Patently the problem is

much larger than originally considered. - Mod.MHJ]

[The interactive HealthMap/ProMED map for Russia is available at:

- CopyEd.EJP]

[see also:

Anthrax, human, equine - Russia: (OM) dumplings 20100805.2644

2009

----

Anthrax, human, equine - Russia: (Bashkortostan) 20090113.0141

2008

----

Anthrax, human, equine - Russia (03): (Bashkortostan) 20081123.3699

Anthrax, human, equine - Russia (02): (Bashkortostan) 20080907.2789

Anthrax, human, equine - Russia: (RB) 20080830.2720]

....................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.

************************************************************

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

an individual moderator). If you do not give your full name

name and affiliation, it may not be posted. You may unsub-

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