Bird flu & Disease Epidemics in General

Originally from: Mike
                        
As the news breaks this weekend that the world epidemic of Bird flu has now spread across Europe via migrating swans, it is, synchronistically, today, the 5th Anniversary of the start of the world's worst foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) epidemic in which between 5 and 8 million animals (mostly healthy and uninfected) were slaughtered. These included children's pet lambs, calves, goats and even zoo animals.

Have we learned the lessons of the FMD epidemic, as we face this new crisis?

Tomorrow, the dramatic new novel, "Following Orders", based on the real events and experiences of a vet in the front line of the FMD epidemic is published. It is an alarming insight into how desperate politicians, frightened farmers and compliant professionals can slide down a slippery slope into ethical and economic catastrophe. Details of "Following Orders" can be found here: http://www.polouk.farming.co.uk/stress/STRESSINDEX.HTM

The FMD epidemic was eventually brought under control, but not until around 6 million healthy farm animals had been killed.

If you would like to say a prayer for the millions of animals that suffered (due to movement restricitons) as well and the millions that died in Europe 5 years ago, plus the millions of poultry whose lives hang in the balance now, here is Albert Schweitzer's "Prayer for the Anmals"... http://www.stress-counselling.co.uk/sunflower/VISIONS/prayer.htm

An archive of the FMD epidemic, with photos and news headlines, is available here: http://www.sunflower-health.com/fmd220803/fmdoutbreaks.htm

More about Bird flu:
http://www.pighealth.com/influenza2.htm

Mike