Leucosis in cattle in the Netherlands

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Epidemiology
• Animal Health

Background:

• Enzootic bovine leucosis (EBL) was historically absent in autochthonous Dutch cattle populations.
• Facilitated cattle imports post-1965 led to the introduction of EBL into the Netherlands.
• Imported cattle carrying EBL occasionally caused disease outbreaks on Dutch farms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the control measures implemented for EBL in the Netherlands since its introduction.
• To describe the official EBL eradication system established in May 1977.
• To report on case histories, eradication policy, and the current status of EBL in the Netherlands.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical records and disease control policies.
• Analysis of case histories related to EBL outbreaks in imported and domestic cattle.
• Description of the national eradication strategy and its implementation.

Main Results:

• EBL was confirmed in cattle imported into the Netherlands after 1965.
• The implementation of an official eradication system starting in May 1977.
• Ongoing efforts to control and monitor EBL under national circumstances.

Conclusions:

• The introduction of EBL through imported cattle necessitated a structured control and eradication approach.
• The national eradication system has been instrumental in managing EBL in the Netherlands.
• Continuous monitoring and policy adaptation are crucial for the sustained control of EBL.