TB cases in Cumbria

TB in Cumbria
• A number of bTB breakdowns in cattle herds have been identified in east Cumbria.
• Sixteen cattle holdings in this area have been affected, with cases identified between November 2014 and February 2017.
• Investigations into the likely source of the disease and extent of spread in the area are ongoing.
• APHA has carried out a thorough investigation, which found evidence the disease is present in badgers in the area.
• APHA is working closely with farmers and others affected to assess the extent of disease in the badger population.
• Additional cattle controls are in place and further action will depend on the results of our surveillance.
• Farmers in the area should continue to practice good biosecurity to minimise the risk of disease spreading to their farms.
• These cases do not prevent the application for classification of the Low Risk Area in England as Officially TB Free going forward to the EU Commission.

Scotland
• Scotland has been classed as officially free of Bovine TB since 2009.
• Scottish Government is aware of the situation in Cumbria and are monitoring the situation.
• There is currently no evidence that the situation in Cumbria is affecting Scotland, and current risk-based routine surveillance measures continue to apply.

Sheelagh Waite
Animal Health and Welfare Division
Agriculture and Rural Economy Directorate
The Scottish Government
P Spur – Saughton House
Broomhouse Drive
EDINBURGH
EH11 3XD