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Spatial analysis of BSE cases in the Netherlands
Lourens Heres1, Dick J Brus, Thomas J Hagenaars
1Department of Bacteriology and TSEs, Central Veterinary Institute of Wageningen UR, Lelystad, The Netherlands. lourens.heres@vionfood.nl
BMC Veterinary Research
|June 19, 2008
Summary
Spatial clustering of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) cases was identified in the Netherlands. Analysis by birth cohort revealed distinct geographical clusters, suggesting time-dependent exposure linked to feed production practices.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Epidemiology
- Animal Health
- Disease Surveillance
Background:
- Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) outbreaks in Europe often exhibit case clustering.
- Previous interpretations linked clustering to varied cattle exposure to the BSE agent.
- The study focuses on spatial patterns within the Dutch BSE epidemic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of spatial clustering in Dutch BSE cases.
- To determine if spatial clustering is influenced by birth cohorts.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of spatial case data from the Dutch BSE epidemic.
- Cohort-based analysis to assess clustering across different birth years.
- Geographical mapping of identified case clusters.
Main Results:
- Three distinct spatial clusters of BSE cases were identified in the Netherlands.
- Each cluster corresponded to a different birth cohort.
- Cohort-based analysis revealed stronger spatial clustering than analysis of all cases together.
Conclusions:
- The Dutch BSE epidemic shows significant spatial case clustering.
- Findings suggest time-dependent exposure heterogeneities, likely related to feed production, are driving the observed spatial patterns.
