Second case of bovine TB found in Cumbria

A second case of bovine TB has been confirmed on a farm at Penrith, Cumbria. It is contiguous to the initial outbreak in the county, which was confirmed over two months ago.

Animal Health officials announced the creation of an “enhanced surveillance zone” near Penrith covering a 3km area near junction 41 of the M6. The zone surrounds the dairy farm where more than 90 animals had to be slaughtered in the original outbreak.

The NFU said in a statement: “Testing was initiated by Animal Health immediately following the original TB breakdown and found no spread of the disease to neighbouring premises. Since then, another animal on a neighbouring farm has tested positive.

“While this is a worry to farmers, it isn’t unexpected, given the amount of testing being carried out.”

Vets are undertaking further testing and tracing work to determine if there are links between the cases identified at the two farms, but say it will be several weeks before a result is known.

Robert Craig, NFU Cumbria county chairman, said the latest confirmed case demonstrated the need for farmers in the county to remain vigilant.

“We must do all that we can to stop the disease becoming established in the county,” said Mr Craig of Armathwaite, Carlisle.