Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Analytical Essay # 112796

Biology
Canadian Studies > Government and Government Policy
Political Science > Non-U.S.

A risk analysis of the 2001 foot-and-mouth disease epidemic in the UK.

2,993 words () | 36 sources | APA | 2009 Canada

Paper Summary:

The paper provides an overview of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and focuses on the 2001 United Kingdom epidemic. The paper points out the faults in the government's reaction to the outbreak and identifies the three models used to guide the UK's policy decisions. The paper then looks at Canada's current biosecurity plan and highlights the contrast between procedures in Canada and Great Britain with regards to FMD.

Outline:
Biohazard: Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Spread & Exposure
Suitability & Treatment
Action
Biosecurity
UK Epidemic
Models
Closer to Home
Moving forward
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Foot-and-mouth disease is a biohazard caused by a virus which affects most livestock. Very few particles are required for an infection to occur. Some symptoms of the disease include sores around mouth and hooves, as well as a loss of energy. Although the virus rarely proves to be fatal, it is very dangerous due to the ease with which it can be transferred or carried. There exists no cure, and vaccines are mediocre in their effectiveness. In 2001 the UK experienced its worst outbreak of the disease, resulting in the slaughtering of millions of animals, and financial losses in the billions. By using mathematical models and intelligently based biosecurity measures, future nations can be better prepared for predicting and preventing foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks."

Sample of Sources Used:

MSN Encarta. 2007. www.encarta.msn.com
Foot and Mouth Disease. 2005. Canadian Food Inspection Agency. http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/heasan/disemala/fmdfie/fmdfiefse.shtml
H. L. Bachrach. 1968. Foot-and-Mouth Disease. Annu. Rev. Microbiol, 22:201-244
F. Sorbino, M. Saiz, M. A. Jimenez-Clavero, J. I. Nunez, M. F. Rosas, E. Baranowski and V. Ley. 2001. Foot-and-mouth disease virus: a long known virus, but a current threat. Vet. Res, 32: 1-30
Foot and Mouth Disease. Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. 2008. http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/fmd/default.htm