Health and Consumer Protection - Bluetongue Virus
- 00:04:27
- European Commission
Health and Consumer Protection - Bluetongue Virus
The Bluetongue virus has been detected in several EU countries (and most recently in the southern area of the Netherlands, the South-East of Belgium, areas of Germany bordering these 2 countries as well as the north of France since 01/09/2006.) The European Commission took measures to fight against the virus as from 22/08/2006. Following the identification of the virus and the positive decision of the veterinary experts from the Member States, the European Commission confirmed the protective measures already in place: - extending the controlled area to 150 kms – within this area movement of ruminants is strictly controlled; - all farm animals situated within the controlled zones must be identified and the national authorities must ensure that these animals do not carry the virus. The protective measures are permanently updated and the last decision was published on 02/09/2006 (Dec.2006/591/EC). The Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health will meet again on 05-06/09/2006 to evaluate the latest epidemiological information. The European Commission and the national authorities intend to pursue their strict surveillance of the situation and will adapt the measures to be put in place to the evolution of the virus. It must be noted that Bluetongue does not affect humans, nor is there any risk of the disease being contracted or spread through meat or milk.
European Commission | September 5, 2006
