BSE researchers bemoan 'ministry secrecy.' (bovine spongiform encephalopathy)
Article Abstract:
UK scientists blame the reluctance of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to provide access to data for the still-limited scientific understanding of the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) epidemic. They attribute the ministry's ambivalent attitude to a 'culture of secrecy' at the agency and its failure to assign adequate personnel to the analysis and distribution of data on the epidemic. University of Oxford zoology professor Roy Anderson and colleagues cite their difficulties in obtaining data needed for a recent study of the transmission and epidemiology of BSE. A number of researchers, however, dispute this, saying the ministry has been helpful.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1996
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Statistics suggest BSE now 'Europe-wide.'(bovine spongiform encephalopathy)
Article Abstract:
The Federation of Veterinarians of Europe has urged for European measures to counter the growing continental dimensions of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). An analysis of UK export of animal feed and live cattle calls for a comprehensive public health program to prevent BSE from entering the human food chain. Revised estimates show that BSE cases in mainland European Union states may number much more, over 2,000, than the declared total of around 50. Computing the exact magnitude of BSE levels is essential to effectively deal with the European strain of the Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans ingesting BSE-contaminated food.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1996
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Slow release of data adds to BSE confusion
Article Abstract:
The delay in the release of data regarding a possible link between Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) by the UK government has added to the panic and confusion on BSE. Scientists have expressed their concern over this lack of communication and the actions proposed by the European governments to restore public belief in European beef. The European Union has set up a commission for research into a possible link between BSE and CJD, and for safeguards against the disease.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1996
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