Exotic diseases reporting scheme

UK sets up scheme for reporting exotic diseases in cats and dogs

source: Veterinary Record vol 152 no 9, March 1 2003 p247

The UK Department of the Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is starting a pilot voluntary reporting schem for exotic diseases in cats and dogs. The scheme will focus on heartworm (dirofilariosis), ehrlichiosis, leishmaniosis and babesiosis, seen as most likely to be imported into the UK as a result of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). Vets are to provide details of the travel history and diagnostic details of suspected and confirmed cases. UK vet organizations, the British Small Animal Veterinary Association and the British Veterinary Association, have collaborated with DEFRA in setting up this scheme, but both organizations argue for a more active scheme to tackle the import of exotic diseases.
DO,HD