Farmers have been urged to show “relentless vigilance” in checking for foot-and-mouth disease, as officials become increasingly optimistic that the outbreak has been contained.
Debby Reynolds, chief veterinary officer, called for the “highest possible levels of biosecurity”, but said there had been a tremendous response to the operation to prevent the spread of the disease. A temporary control zone placed around a farm in Surrey that had been at the centre of the latest alert has been lifted, after tests proved negative.
Peter Kendall, president of the National Farmers’ Union, said: “It does now sound as though there is a real possibility that the disease may be under control. However, we are not out of the woods yet and there is no room for complacency.”
Landowners expressed relief that the outbreak had not affected the start of the grouse shooting season today, but emphasised the need for sportsmen and other visitors to disinfect vehicles and footwear before crossing land.
David Fursdon, president of the Country Land and Business Association, said: “While foot-and-mouth continues to be a concern to farmers everywhere, the government’s response has been largely proportionate and the countryside remains open. Although many agricultural shows and events have been cancelled as a precautionary measure, it is a relief that other traditional country pursuits can continue, albeit with the need for increased vigilance and full biosecurity measures.”
A ban has been imposed on most animal movements, as well as on exports of all livestock, fresh meat and milk products. This ban will remain in place until August 25, although a review by a European Union committee two days earlier could lead to a earlier partial lifting of the ban.
The investigation into the source of the first two cases centres on a site at Pirbright, near Guildford, where the government’s Institute for Animal Health and Merial Animal Health, a research company, are based.
An initial report by the Health & Safety Executive found a negligible chance of an airborne release of the virus, but waterborne release and accidental or deliberate release by human movements was possible. The HSE said it would shortly announce the result of further tests aiming at establishing the source of the virus.
The National Farmers’ Union has retained Thring Townsend, a law firm, to carry out preliminary investigatory work on behalf of its members who have suffered losses as a result of the foot-and-mouth outbreak.
