Notifiable and tranboundary diseases Flashcards
What is a notifiable disease?
A notifiable disease is an animal disease that you are legally obliged to report to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) if you suspect it.
What are transboundary diseases?
Transboundary diseases are internationally important animal diseases that can cross borders, often referred to as “exotic diseases.”
List five examples of notifiable diseases in the UK.
Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
Bovine Tuberculosis (TB)
Rabies
Anthrax
What is FMD and what species does it affect?
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease caused by an Aphthavirus (Picornavirus). It affects ruminants and pigs, causing vesicles and ulcers in the mouth, on the tongue, and feet, leading to lameness and reduced production.
How is FMD transmitted?
FMD is readily transmitted through equipment, clothes, vehicles, wildlife, and wind. It survives well in the environment, potentially up to a month.
What happens when FMD is suspected on a farm?
Contact APHA immediately.
Duty VO visits the farm to assess and potentially take samples.
The farm is declared a “Suspect Premises” with isolation, movement restrictions, disinfection protocols, and epidemiological inquiry.
What control zones are established if FMD is confirmed?
Protection Zone - Minimum 3 km radius.
Surveillance Zone - Minimum 10 km radius.
Restricted Zone - Movement bans across larger areas, such as Great Britain.
What are the social and economic impacts of FMD outbreaks?
Loss of FMD-free status.
Halted exports of cattle, sheep, and pig products.
Severe stress on rural communities, affecting mental health and wellbeing.
What is the role of WOAH (OIE) in international disease notification?
WOAH requires member countries to notify them of important epidemiological events. This ensures transparent and consistent reporting, and harmonized disease control efforts.
What are the EU categories for listed animal diseases?
Category A: Absent from the EU (e.g., FMD).
Category B: Present in the EU but targeted for eradication (e.g., Bovine TB).
Category C: Present but must not spread to disease-free areas (e.g., Echinococcus multilocularis).
Category D: Control spread (e.g., Salmonellosis).
Category E: Surveillance required (e.g., Q-fever).
Name three diseases from the UK notifiable list and their significance
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu): High impact on poultry industries.
Rabies: Public health concern and zoonotic potential.
Bovine TB: Controversial control methods, including wildlife reservoirs.
What happens to animals on infected premises with confirmed FMD?
Susceptible animals are humanely culled, carcasses are disposed of, and preliminary disinfection is carried out. An epidemiological investigation is conducted to trace the disease source and spread.
Why is FMD relevant to veterinary professionals?
Clients and communities value veterinarians’ knowledge and opinions during outbreaks. Veterinary professionals must handle public pressure and maintain evidence-based views while supporting mental health in rural communities.
What is Bovine TB, and why is it important?
Bovine TB is an endemic notifiable disease caused by Mycobacterium bovis. It affects cattle, wildlife, and pets, and is zoonotic. Control is controversial, requiring evidence-based approaches.
How is Bovine TB transmitted?
Cattle-to-cattle spread (major route): Most local and long-distance transmission.
Cattle-to-badger and badger-to-cattle spread: Cross-species transmission is uncommon.
Zoonotic spread through unpasteurized milk (controlled by pasteurization).
