10 December 2012

2 minute read

Oceania

Biosecurity Queensland's chief veterinary officer, Dr Rick Symons said over the past week, Biosecurity Queensland had contacted approximately 150 properties which have received cattle from a beef stud property near Rockhampton where some livestock have been confirmed with BJD.

"Movement restrictions have been placed on almost all of those properties," Dr Symons said.

"It will take time to thoroughly assess the disease risk for each individual property, which is why finalising the risk assessments for all affected properties is expected take a number of months.

"I want to highlight that so far, the beef stud property near Rockhampton is still the only property confirmed as having the infection.

"It is expected that most properties under assessment will not be infected with BJD, however we must undertake this process to retain Queensland's protected status.

"If there are any producers who think they could be affected, but have not been contacted by Biosecurity Queensland, I urge them to call 13 25 23 to discuss their situation with an inspector.

"Potentially-affected producers should not move or slaughter stock until they have discussed their options with Biosecurity Queensland.

"Working with Biosecurity Queensland will ensure that an appropriate risk assessment is done and, if necessary, samples can be collected so as to minimise the time a property is under movement restrictions."

Dr Symons said a comprehensive information pack was now available for the Queensland cattle industry, producers and general community.

"It has a range of information on the disease, how property owners can reduce the risk of BJD on their property, and what affected producers can expect to happen on their property," Dr Symons said.

"All producers should have sound biosecurity practices in place to minimise the risk of pest and diseases being introduced."

TheCattleSite News Desk