Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council

Foot and Mouth - Update

Foot and mouth disease is an infectious disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals, in particular cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, camelids and deer. There were eight confirmed cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Surrey and Windsor and Maidenhead in August and September 2007.

From 31 December 2007, the FMD Export Areas were lifted together with the remaining restrictions on the movement of FMD-susceptible animals and their export to other EU countries.

Bluetongue restrictions remain firmly in place and these movement rules must  be complied with when moving livestock.

For further information
Please call the Defra Helpline on 08459 33 55 77 The Helpline is available for telephone and email enquiries between 8.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday, or see the DEFRA web site on http://www.defra.gov.uk/

A new communication channel also allows those without regular access to the internet to listen to the latest news by simply dialling 0844 884 4600 instead. The information line will be updated regularly. Calling in costs 5p a minute (4.2p plus VAT).

Alternatively, please do not hesitate to contact the Animal Health Team on 01302 737554/737560

Farmers and other keepers of susceptible animals are reminded of the need for vigilance, and for excellent biosecurity www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/control/biosecurity/index.htm

Questions and answers are available at
www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/fmd/qanda/qanda-general.htm

A Defra Foot & Mouth factsheet is available on www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/fmd/pdf/factsheet1.pdf