§ Mr. Matthew BanksTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he will take to eradicate leptospira hardjo infection from the national dairy herd; and what action is being taken to warn dairy farmers and the public about the dangers of this disease.
§ Mr. SoamesLeptospira hardjo is not a notifiable disease and there are no plans to introduce eradication measures. Vaccination and treatment are effective in protecting herds. The disease represents a potential hazard to those in direct contact with cattle, but is not a risk to the general public. In discussion with veterinary organisations, the Department has produced an advisory document, agreed with the Health and Safety Executive, which contains advice on avoidance and dealing with the disease and which is being published and circulated by the British Cattle Veterinary Association.