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 Following an investigation of suspected vesicular disease by Animal Health on a
holding near Guildford in Surrey, laboratory results have this evening indicated
that the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) virus is present in samples from cattle on
the premises.
On the basis of the initial laboratory results Debby Reynolds, UK Chief
Veterinary Officer has confirmed Foot and Mouth Disease. In accordance with the
legislation and contingency planning arrangements all the cattle on the premises
will be culled. A Protection Zone of three kilometres radius and a Surveillance
Zone of 10 kilometres has been placed around the premises, and a GB wide
national movement ban of all ruminants and pigs has been imposed.
Nationally no animal movements are allowed except under licence, controls are
in place on movement of animal carcasses, animal gatherings, shearing and
dipping are restricted, and all farms must increase levels of biosecurity. In
both the Protection and Surveillance Zones, there will be requirements for
increased levels of biosecurity on farms, movement controls, controls on
transportation of dung/manure and treatment of animal products to ensure
destruction of the FMD virus.
The farm itself has been under restrictions since late on Thursday evening
when symptoms were reported to the local Animal Health office. A 1km temporary
restriction zone was placed around the premises earlier today whilst
investigations and testing were completed, in line with domestic and EU
legislation.
The European Commission has been informed.
Photograph by Rob Waterhouse
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