Animal Health Emergencies

Animal diseases can present a threat to human health, and has had a serious impact on livestock, food industries, the economy and individuals.

The recent outbreaks of Foot and Mouth disease has reminded us all of the very serious impact of animal disease. Following the eight confirmed cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in a very localised area in south-east of England in August and September 2007, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has worked hard to safeguard against such an outbreak ever happening again.

Animal Health legislation aims to control the spread of diseases and ideally eradicate them. This is done by controlling the movements of animals and isolating areas where disease is confirmed. Legislation imposes strict controls on the import of animals, via import licences and quarantine controls.

Local reponse to an animal health emergency

Worcestershire County Council has responsibility for Animal Health Emergencies under the Animal Health Act. The Head of Trading Standards is the Council's principal officer in Animal Health matters, and will initiate, supervise and co-ordinate action to meet the Council's responsibilities, in conjunction with the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). For more information on Animal Health and Welfare please click here

Useful link

For more information about Bird Flu please click here