A Review of Exotic Animal Disease in Great Britain (1938-2007)
Author Information
Author(s): Peiso Onneile O., Bronsvoort Barend M. de C., Handel Ian G., Volkova Victoriya V.
Primary Institution: University of Edinburgh
Hypothesis
Understanding the occurrence of exotic animal diseases in Great Britain can help assess risks and improve control measures.
Conclusion
The study found that while the number of livestock in Great Britain increased, the incidence of exotic diseases varied, with bovine tuberculosis showing the highest annual incidence.
Supporting Evidence
- The maximum annual incidence of bovine tuberculosis was reported at 1.69% of holdings in 1961.
- Foot and mouth disease was recorded in GB in 32 of the 70 years reviewed.
- Newcastle disease had a maximum incidence of 1.50% in 1971.
- Classical swine fever was reported in GB in 33 of the 70 years reviewed.
- Anthrax episodes were reported in GB in 62 of the 70 years reviewed.
Takeaway
This study looks at how often diseases affected farm animals in Great Britain from 1938 to 2007, showing that some diseases were more common than others over the years.
Methodology
The study reviewed reports from British governmental veterinary services to estimate disease incidence and culling rates on agricultural holdings.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in reporting and data collection methods may have influenced the findings.
Limitations
Data on historical disease occurrence and denominator populations were limited, affecting the accuracy of incidence estimates.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on agricultural holdings in Great Britain, with no specific demographic data on participants.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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