Algeria has suspended the purchase of French cows as an epidemic reaches some herds, a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture explained. Cases of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) have been detected in Europe, first in the Iberian Peninsula and now in France.
To avoid contagion, the purchase of live calves and cows from France is now prohibited. This is a "preventive" and "urgent" measure, taken after advice from the national veterinary authority, specified the ministry.
France itself has taken similar measures, banning the export of live cattle for several farms in the southwest.
Mosquito Bites
Epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) was discovered in 1995 in the United States. The disease is transmitted by a midge that bites ruminants but also deer. The virus circulates through the bloodstream and causes fever, weight loss, mouth lesions and difficulty breathing. However, the effects on livestock may vary.
"Some do not react or have mild forms, like sheep, others have more serious forms which can lead to death," explained Christophe Brard, president of the National Society of Veterinary Technical Groups, as cited by media.
No vaccine currently exists against EHD. Affected specimens should be removed from the herd and treated with painkillers, anti-inflammatories or antibiotics. However, the disease is not transmissible to humans.
Algeria has been facing a decline in its cattle and sheep herds for several months. Infectious diseases and drought that reduce the extent of pastures are the main causes. In May, the government even worked on a bill criminalizing the slaughtering of certain female animals.