Classical BSE case confirmed in Dumfries and Galloway

A case of classical bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as “mad cow disease”, has been confirmed in a cow on a farm in Dumfries and Galloway.

The case was identified through Scotland’s routine BSE surveillance programme, which involves intensive testing of cattle to detect the disease.

Precautionary movement restrictions have been placed on the animal’s offspring and other cattle in its “cohort” – animals that may have shared similar exposure risks – at the affected farm.

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The Animal and Plant Health Agency (Apha) is investigating the source of the disease, which is an isolated case.

‘Classical’ meaning

Classical BSE is the traditional form of the disease. It is a rare, progressive and fatal disease of the nervous system of cattle caused by abnormal proteins called prions.

The term “classical” distinguishes it from atypical BSE, a much rarer form that is thought to arise spontaneously, usually in older cattle, rather than through exposure to contaminated feed.

Classical BSE is not directly transmitted from cow to cow. It occurs mainly when cattle consume feed contaminated with the BSE agent. 

The affected cow did not enter the human food chain and Food Standards Scotland has confirmed there is no risk to human health from this isolated case.

Rapid identification

Scotland’s agriculture minister Jim Fairlie said the rapid identification of the case demonstrated that Scotland’s surveillance system was working effectively.

“Following confirmation of a case of classical BSE in Dumfries and Galloway, the Scottish government and other agencies acted swiftly and decisively to protect the agriculture sector,” he said.

Mr Fairlie thanked the animal’s owner for their diligence, saying their swift action had allowed the case to be identified and isolated immediately, minimising its impact on the wider industry.

All cattle over four years old that die on farms are routinely tested for BSE under Scotland’s surveillance system.

The owners of the affected animals are working with authorities as investigations continue into the origin of the disease and further control measures are carried out.

Reaction 

Responding to the confirmed case, farmer and Orkney and Shetland MP Alistair Carmichael said: “It is to be hoped that this is a one-off case.

“I remember when the BSE crisis was at its height and we do not want to go back to those days again.

“At a time when we are already dealing with other animal diseases, this shows the importance of high-quality surveillance and swift responses by government agencies.

“It reinforces the need to ensure that Apha is fully funded in its work.”

Eleanor Kay, senior policy adviser at the Scottish Land and Estates, said that while the case would concern farmers, it was reassuring that it was identified through routine surveillance and the animal did not enter the food chain.