Case of mad cow disease (BSE) discovered in Scotland

A case of classical bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease, has been confirmed on a farm in Ayrshire. The Scottish Government said precautionary travel restrictions have been put in place at the affected premises and relate to animals that have been in contact with the case.

The case was identified through routine surveillance and strict control measures and the animal did not enter the human food chain. Food Standards Scotland has confirmed that there is no risk to human health following this isolated case.

Further investigations to identify the origin of the disease are ongoing, as is the standard procedure for a confirmed case of classic BSE. Scottish Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said: “Following the confirmation of a classic BSE case in Ayrshire, the Scottish Government and other agencies have taken swift and strong action to protect the agricultural sector. This included establishing a precautionary travel ban on the farm.

“The fact that we identified this isolated case so quickly is proof that our surveillance system for detecting this type of disease is working effectively. I would like to thank the pet owner for his diligence. Their decisive action allowed us to quickly identify and isolate the case, minimizing its impact on the entire sector.

Scotland's chief veterinary officer, Sheila Voas, said: “The rapid detection of this case is proof that our surveillance system is doing its job. We are working closely with the Animal and Plant Health Agency and other partners to identify the origin of the disease.

“I would like to reassure farmers and the public that the risk associated with this isolated case is minimal. But if farmers are worried, I encourage them to seek advice from a veterinarian.