A CASE of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) has been today confirmed on a farm in Ayrshire.
The Scottish Government says precautionary movement restrictions have been put in place at the impacted premises and covers animals which have been in contact with the case.
Further investigations to identify the origin of the disease are ongoing.
The case was identified as a result of routine surveillance and stringent control measures. The animal did not enter the human food chain. Food Standards Scotland have confirmed there is no risk to human health.
Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie said: “The fact we identified this isolated case so quickly is proof that our surveillance system for detecting this type of disease is working effectively.
“I want to thank the animal’s owner for their diligence. Their decisive action has allowed us to identify and isolate the case at speed which has minimised its impact on the wider industry.”
Chief Veterinary Officer Sheila Voas added: “We are working closely with the Animal and Plant Health Agency, and other partners to identify where the disease came from.
“I want to reassure both farmers and the public that the risk associated with this isolated case is minimal. But, if any farmers are concerned, I would urge them to seek veterinary advice.”
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