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Thursday, January 12, 2012

Scotland : New livestock virus alert

Via The Scottish Farmer, excerpt :

" A NEW virus that causes foetal malformations in cattle, sheep and goats has been detected in mainland Europe – and Scottish vets and farmers have been put on alert for any sign that it might have reached these shores.

Schmallenberg virus (SBV) has already been confirmed in Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium. It is thought, but not confirmed, that the virus is insect borne and species of midges are implicated. There is little more known about its transmission, or if immunity can arise after infection. But there is no vaccine available.

This week, SAC’s veterinary services manager Brian Hosie wrote to vets and the farming industry requesting that they promptly report limb and brain defects in new-born animals."

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