Heightened UK Surveillance Following Detection of New Ruminant Schmallenberg Virus in Mainland Europe
09 January 2012
SAC has asked vets and farmers in Scotland to step up surveillance following the detection in mainland Europe of a new virus causing foetal malformations in cattle, sheep and goats.
SAC’s Veterinary Services Manager Brian Hosie has written to veterinary practices and the farming industry requesting they report incidences of limb and brain defects in new-born animals and foetuses, following the detection of “Schmallenberg virus” (SBV) in Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium. Foetal malformations occur when pregnant animals are infected with SBV. While there is no evidence that SBV is currently present in Britain, the enhanced surveillance aims to ensure that, should SBV infection occur, it is detected and controlled at the earliest possible stage.
Any reported stillbirth, malformation or nervous disease in new born animals or foetuses born to ruminant dams that were imported from mainland Europe in 2011 should also be investigated by SAC.
Brian Hosie said: “I would stress that current evidence suggests the likelihood of incursion of this viral infection into Britain is low but heightened surveillance on the part of vets and the farming industry will allow us to further assess the risk of an incursion of SBV and to react effectively should it occur.
“We want to fully investigate certain types of limb and brain defects in new-born ruminants and foetuses. Specifically, contractures that are present at birth that result in reduced mobility of several limb joints. In severe cases, limbs and the spine also may be twisted. The brain damage caused by this virus is severe and results in blindness and lack of brain function such that calves and lambs appear like ‘dummies’.
“We therefore ask veterinary practices and farmers to report such cases to us. In addition, farmers planning to purchase cattle from Belgium, the Netherlands or Germany should enquire about the health history of herds of origin of pregnant animals.”
Veterinary practices in Scotland can discuss cases with SAC veterinary investigation officers and are asked to submit appropriate carcases for post mortem examination, accompanied by a fully completed submission form. The standard, subsidised surveillance rate charge will apply.
The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) has asked veterinary practices in England and Wales to increase their surveillance for Schmallenberg virus.
