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Topical Subjects

Bluetongue Virus


Bluetongue is a disease of animals affecting all ruminants, including sheep, cattle, deer, goats and camelids (camels, llamas, alpacas, guanaco and vicuña).

Although sheep are most severely affected, cattle are the main carrier of the virus and are very important in the epidemiology of the disease.  It is characterised by changes to the mucous linings of the mouth and nose and the coronary band of the foot.  Bluetongue is present when it is confirmed by laboratory tests that the Bluetongue virus (BTV) is circulating in an area.  Bluetongue does not affect humans.  For further information on the virus and related matters follow the link below.

Defra (Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs 

 

Avian Flu


Avian flu affects birds.  It has been transmitted to people who work in very close proximity to birds (such as poultry workers).

If you find one or more dead swans/wild fowl (ducks and geese), more than three dead birds of the same species or more than five dead birds of different species, in the same place, you should contact the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) helpline 08459 335577.  Currently the helpline is available Monday - Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday - Sunday 9am to 6pm.  You will be asked for details of your finding and its location.


Seasonal flu


This 'ordinary' flu occurs in the UK population as a matter of course, usually two or three times per year.


Pandemic Flu


Pandemic flu affecting humans occurs when a new flu virus emerges which is very different from recently circulating strains.

It could happen if:

  • Avian Flu combines with ‘ordinary’ flu or
  • the Avian Flu virus mutates and you get a completely new flu strain that can be transmitted directly from one person to another.

It has not happened yet but, if it did, it would be a big problem.  Few, if any, people would have any immunity to a new virus.  This would allow it to spread widely and easily and to cause more serious illness.

Experts predict another pandemic will occur but cannot say exactly when.  Each pandemic is different and, until a virus starts circulating, it is impossible to predict its full effect.


Useful links


Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)

Department of Health

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