Review Article

Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy and Foot-and-Mouth Disease, Two Animal Epidemics Transferable To Humans.
Implications for Occupational Safety and Measures Adopted in Germany

Bernd Jansen1, Christa Hilmes2, Detlev Jung3

1 Department of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
2 Institution for Statutory Accident Insurance and Prevention in the Meat-processing Industry, Mainz, Germany
3 Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany

Corresponding author: Professor Dr. Dr. Bernd Jansen
    Department of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine,
    University of Mainz
    Hochhaus Augustusplatz
    D-55131 Mainz
    Telephone: +49-6131-39-33126
    Fax number: +49-6131-39-36628
    E-mail adress: bjansen@mail.uni-mainz.de

CEJOEM 2001, Vol.7. Nos.3-4.:155-167


Key words:
BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy), foot-and-mouth-disease, protection of health and safety at work, infectiousness

Abbreviations:
BSE = Bovine spongiform encephalopathy
CJD = Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease
FMD = Foot-and-mouth disease
TSE = transmissible spongiform encephalopathy
vCJD = variant Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease


Abstract:
Because of their currently widespread presence, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and foot-and-mouth disease are the animal diseases that are most frequently discussed by the general public. In connection with these diseases, questions also arise regarding the potential dangers for people working in the meat-processing industry and the protection of health and safety at work. The following paper reflects current knowledge about the development, spread, clinical picture, and protective measures that can be undertaken when dealing with these infectious diseases.


Received:  21 January 2002
Accepted:  09 February 2002

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