[Guarantee of the control of animal epidemics for consumer protection]

The main of animal disease control with regard to consumer welfare is the eradication of zoonoses, that is of zoonotic agent that, via food of animal origin, cause disease in man. As an example of harmonized European Union control measures reference is made to Directive 92/117/EEC concerning measures for protection against specified zoonoses and specified zoonotic agents in animals and products of animal origin in order to prevent outbreaks of foodborne infections and intoxications (Zoonosis Directive), with an emphasis on salmonellosis in poultry flocks. The commitment of EU member states to the improvement of the health status of farm animals, to the reduction of threats to human health, and to simultaneously guaranteeing free intra-Community trade results in the need to reorganise veterinary services.