Science must lead the fight against new farm virus says Emma McClarkin MEP

East Midlands Conservative MEP Emma McClarkin has today called on the EU to ensure scientists respond vigorously and urgently to the threat of the new livestock virus Schmallenberg.

Miss McClarkin said science would be vital in learning more about the disease and finding ways to control its spread.

Schmallenberg virus emerged this year and causes alarming birth defects in cattle and sheep. There have now been more than 2,000 cases in Europe, including several hundred in England, the virus having crossed the Channel from Holland and Belgium.

Miss McClarkin, whose East Midlands region is among the areas hit, said: “Little is so far known about the virus and there is no cure or preventive vaccine at present.

“It is not a notifiable disease but I would strongly urge farmers to report cases so that the right precautions can be taken and more can be learnt about the disease.

“There is no evidence of any implication for human health, but the commercial damage for farmers whose stock is hit by the virus is potentially terrible.

“I would encourage the European Commission to make sure scientists tackle vigorously the question of whether an early cure can be found for this disease and whether vaccination could be effective.

“Its progress across Europe has so far been gradual, but worrying. However, it is believed to be carried by midges and mosquitoes – so the coming spring and summer months could be vital to its containment or otherwise.
Miss McClarkin was speaking after a debate in the European Parliament called by Northern Ireland MEP James Nicholson, agriculture spokesman for the centre-right European Conservatives and Reformists Group to which UK Conservatives belong.

He concluded: “It is vital that we learn the lessons of bluetongue – another insect-borne virus affecting sheep and cattle that crossed over from Europe a few years ago. Viruses like this do not respect international boundaries. Europe needs a joined-up response to Schmallenberg which ensures veterinary firepower is available promptly wherever it is needed.”