Canada wrapping up latest BSE investigation

CANADA - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) comprehensive investigation of Canada's latest case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is nearing completion.
calendar icon 6 March 2007
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CFIA investigators have confirmed the animal was born in 2000 and was at least six and a half years old at the time of its death, based on dental analysis, DNA testing and information provided by the producer.

Information collected through the investigation also indicates the animal was born and raised on the farm where it was found. The CFIA has directed all necessary resources toward the tracing of cattle that may have been exposed to the same feed as the affected animal during the early part of their lives.

The investigation also includes a thorough examination of the formulation, production, transportation and storage of a number of feed sources used on the birth farm at the time.

This case is consistent with our understanding of BSE in North America. The CFIA has maintained that more cases could be found, especially considering that we are testing cattle most at risk of having BSE More than 150,000 cattle have been tested since BSE was first detected in 2003.

All of Canada’s cases have been detected through the surveillance program. These findings provide undisputable proof that our targeted testing regime is effective and working as intended to closely monitor the health of Canada’s cattle herd.

Under Canada's enhanced feed ban, which comes into effect on July 12, 2007, BSE should be eliminated from the national cattle herd within approximately 10 years. The CFIA expects the periodic detection of a limited number of cases to continue as the level of BSE continues to decline.

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