17 August 2007
Jersey’s foot and mouth working group met again this morning to review and monitor the position following the outbreak of the disease in the UK. The group noted that the situation in the UK had not deteriorated and are therefore confident that the existing measures in place in the Island are still appropriate. These precautions will continue until at least the end of next week when a review of the situation in the UK will be undertaken by the UK and EU,
States Veterinary Officer, Linda Lowseck reminds all farmers and owners of susceptible animals, that despite no further outbreaks of the disease in the UK, there is a continued need for vigilance and maintained bio-security measures on their premises.
Horses returning from the UK to Jersey will continue to require an Export Health Certificate from their local DEFRA animal health office, before leaving the UK. Horse owners are advised that should horses be returning to Jersey or moving to Northern Ireland or another EU Member State within a 15 day period following their departure from the Island, a declaration from their veterinary surgeon in Jersey may be required confirming there had been no contact with horses suffering from infectious or contagious disease. It is advisable that this is obtained prior to the horse’s departure from Jersey.
The public are reminded that an up to date list of “frequently asked questions” can be found on www.gov.je.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
For more information contact Chris Newton, Director of Environment on 441610.
gov.je