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Surveillance of BSE.
1Swiss Federal Veterinary Office, Liebefeld.
Archives of Virology. Supplementum
|February 24, 2001
Summary
A new surveillance system using the Prionics-Western-Blot Test in Switzerland improved Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) identification. This method enhances accuracy by testing high-risk cattle groups and random samples, bypassing clinical reporting limitations.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Food Safety
Background:
- Current Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) identification relies on clinical signs, which can be unreliable due to early-stage disease presentation and reporting biases.
- Histology and immunohistochemistry are accurate but impractical for widespread BSE testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate a targeted surveillance system for improved BSE detection in cattle.
- To assess the effectiveness of the Prionics-Western-Blot Test in a national surveillance program.
Main Methods:
- Initiation of a targeted surveillance system in Switzerland in 1999, utilizing the Prionics-Western-Blot Test.
- Confirmation of Prionics-positive results via histology or immunohistochemistry by a reference laboratory.
- Testing of fallen stock, emergency slaughter cows, and a random sample of regular slaughter cows.
Main Results:
- The surveillance scheme identified fallen stock and emergency slaughter cows as primary risk groups.
- The system provides BSE status independent of clinical reporting inaccuracies.
- This approach is valuable for verifying BSE status in low-incidence or BSE-free countries.
Conclusions:
- A targeted surveillance system employing the Prionics-Western-Blot Test offers a reliable method for BSE detection.
- This strategy overcomes limitations of clinical case reporting and is suitable for mass testing.
- The system aids in validating national BSE status, crucial for international trade and public health.