Canada has another confirmed case of mad cow disease

Canada has another confirmed case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also known as mad cow disease.

Results released Sunday show the Alberta dairy cow has the disease, according to veterinary officials with the The Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

“The infected animal was detected through the recently enhanced national surveillance program. Additional cases may be found as testing of high-risk cattle continues,” said the agency in a news release on its website.

“The CFIA is continuing its investigation and has determined the infected animal’s farm of origin. Efforts are now underway to identify any other animals of similar risk.”

Preliminary tests last week were positive for mad cow disease. The animal did not enter the human food or animal feed supply. Officials say there was no risk to the public.

The suspected, now confirmed, case turned up less than a day after the U.S. announced plans to reopen its border to live young cattle from Canada after a 19-month ban.

Provided by ArmMed Media
Revision date: June 21, 2011
Last revised: by Amalia K. Gagarina, M.S., R.D.