[Analysis of risk factors associated with bovine spongiform encephalopathy in Argentina]

Epidemiological studies conducted in the United Kingdom have revealed the risk factors involved in the epidemic of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). This has facilitated a detailed study of risk factors associated with the possible introduction of BSE into Argentina. An analysis has been made of the numbers and geographical distribution of cattle in the country, the structure of the Veterinary Services responsible for controlling animal diseases, the way in which cattle and sheep are slaughtered, and the use of slaughter waste in the feed industry. The results of this analysis form the basis of a discussion of whether scrapie or BSE could become endemic in Argentina through contaminated feed or another route. The authors conclude that Argentina may be regarded as free from BSE, and that the importation of infected bovines is the sole potential risk for introduction of BSE in the future.