asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the advice and instructions which are being issued by his Department to prevent further spread of the killer disease bacillary haemoglobinuria for which there is no known cure; and if he will make a statement on the present out-break.
Written Answers. - Animal Killer Disease.
103.
The disease bacillary haemoglobinuria, or BHU as it is commonly called, is not a new phenomenon. It is a bacterial disease caused by the same family of organisms as blackleg, pulpy kidney, braxy and tetanus. The organisms are found in the soil and can remain there without causing disease.
BHU, in this country, was first diagnosed in North Cork in 1985. It was subsequently diagnosed in the South Limerick region and, more recently, has been identified in the Killarney, Castle-island, Milltown and Rathmore areas of Kerry. The disease has a rapid course, the affected animal dying within 24 hours of the first signs becoming apparent. The affected animal stops eating, as no bowel movements and shows red discolouration of the urine; it is reluctant to move and becomes recumbent prior to death. The main organ affected is the liver.
The carcases of such animals should be disposed of by burial in quicklime.
Since the disease was first diagnosed, my Department's veterinary officers have consulted with, and advised, veterinary practitioners and farmers in the affected areas on preventive measures.
BHU can be prevented by vaccination and I would advise farmers to consult with their veterinary surgeons with regard to the possible need for this measure.