Veterinary experts, speaking at a briefing in London convened by the AHVLA have presened differing views of the progression Schmallenberg virus could make in the UK following this season. Scientists from the UK and the Netherlands gave a range of scenarios on the possible developments the next year will bring.

 image expired

Liverpool University’s Matthew Baylis said that, in a hopeful scenario, the disease could “fizzle out”, as infected animals become immune to the virus after infection, there is no evidence for animal to animal transfer occurring and midge populations may no longer be infected.

However, other veterinary scientists and pathologists warned that, if the virus has survived over winter in the midge population, or if midges pick up the virus in the UK, it could spread further, potentially covering the entire country next year.

Professor Peter Mertens, head of the Vector-Borne Disease Programme at the Institute of Animal Health, added to concerns by revealing that evidence from mainland Europe suggests that as reports of infections in sheep are falling, those in cattle are rising. This is consistent with the AHVLA’s warnings that SBV infections occurred last year and the extent of the damage will only become clear as calving or lambing begins. As cows have a longer gestation period than sheep, the level of infection in cows will only become apparent over the coming weeks.

Professor Mertens predicated, "This virus has the potential to spread across the entire country. It is likely the virus will not go away in a year. I think that would be almost too good to be true."

The scientists maintain that their evidence suggests the virus does not pose a threat to humans.

The latest results from the AHVLA, published on Monday, show the virus, which causes stillbirths and congenital abnormalities in is affecting 83 farms in the UK, with over a thousand affected on the continent. Germany has been the worst affected so far, reporting cases on nearly 800 farms.

Responding to a question in the House of Commons yesterday, Farming Minister Jim Paice said he does not believe increasing regulation over the threat of SBV is necessary. However, the farming minister came under further fire for his current refusal to make the disease notifiable, which some fear is hampering Defra’s efforts to build up a clear picture of infection.

Following comments made by Lib Dem MP Tim Farron earlier in the week, Shadow environment secretary Mary Creagh demanded to know why Defra had not made the disease notifiable. Mr Paice responded that the department is being well served by the private veterinary sector, although he did admit the matter is under review.

Update 02/03/2012 19:00

The latest report from the AHVLA shows the number of Schmallenberg infections in the UK has risen to 92 farms. Seven of the positive cases have been diagnosed in  cattle, 85 in sheep, and none to date in other species. All of the newly reported infections remain within the 'at risk' zone identified by the AHVLA.

Tweet