EDPR GUIDELINES

In view of the situation relating to Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) internationally, we felt it was worthwhile drawing attention to AFFCO's Exotic Disease and Pest Responses (EDPR) guidelines.

EXOTIC DISEASE AND PEST RESPONSES (EDPR)

Note - this applies to various types of livestock (e.g. goats, cattle, pigs, sheep and deer).
'Exotic' refers to any pest or disease that has not been found in New Zealand. 'Responses' are the contingencies put in place to be able to react immediately to eliminate the disease or pest before it can become permanently established.

Serious Economic Consequences for New Zealand

The continued acceptance of our meat and dairy products from New Zealand by overseas countries depends upon our remaining free from disease. For example, an outbreak of FMD, which is greatly feared in most countries because of its ability to spread rapidly, could lead to overseas embargoes on the importation of our meat and dairy products by many overseas countries.

It can be assumed that all exports of meat and dairy products would cease. The resumption of normal trade would depend not only upon the effectiveness of the control and eradication measures already in place, but also upon the quick reactions of the public and people involved in all aspects of the industry.

Foot and Mouth Disease

FMD is identified as the most serious of many exotic diseases that is most likely to affect our meat and dairy industries. It is a rapidly spreading viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals e.g. pigs, cattle, sheep, goats and deer.

Pigs and cattle are generally the most seriously affected and typically develop a feverish illness with vesicle-like lesions in and around the mouth and on the soft skin of the feet and teats. Lameness and slobbering commonly occur.

During the course of your daily routine, if you observe an animal or animals displaying symptoms or lesions like those described above, or have another concern about livestock health, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry urge you to PLEASE immediately phone the MAF Exotic Disease and Pest Emergency Hotline.