Animal diseases and welfare in Finland 1999
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry 2000
[suomeksi]> Animal diseases and welfare in Finland 1998
> Animal diseases and welfare in Finland 1997Table of content
> Prevention of animal diseases
> International Office of Epizootics (OIE) List A diseases
> OIE List B diseases and other diseases to be officially controlled
> Legislation on animal protection
The Veterinary and Food Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is the supreme authority responsible for the prevention and monitoring of animal diseases. Provincial veterinarians carry out duties related to the implementation of legislation in the provinces and both municipal veterinarians and inspection veterinarians carry out the duties locally. Border inspection veterinarians are responsible for the prevention of animal diseases through veterinary border inspections. The National Veterinary and Food Research Institute (EELA) carries out testing and investigations related to the implementation of legislation.
If the owner or keeper of an animal, or a veterinarian other than the municipal veterinarian, suspects an outbreak of an animal disease, notifiable according to animal disease legislation, on the farm he or she must report this to the municipal veterinarian or, failing this, to the provincial veterinarian. The provincial veterinarian in turn reports the suspected outbreak to a veterinarian at the Veterinary and Food Department.
Table 1. Outbreaks of OIE List A diseases in Finland. The year of outbreak is the year when there last was an outbreak of the disease in Finland.
There were no outbreaks of any of the List A diseases in Finland in 1999. The last outbreak of such a disease in Finland was in 1996, when Newcastle disease was isolated in farmed wild birds. There were no cases of Newcastle disease in poultry, and the outbreak did not affect the non-vaccinating status of Finland for Newcastle disease, granted to Finland by the European Union during accession negotiations (Commission Decision 94/963/EC, 28.12.94). Non-vaccinating status can only be maintained if annual serological testing for Newcastle disease antibodies is carried out on all poultry breeding farms. Such testing has been carried out in Finland since 1993. In 1999, a total of 5,747 individual blood samples were tested. All samples were negative.
The previous outbreak of a List A disease in Finland was in 1971, and then it too was Newcastle disease. Outbreaks of OIE List A diseases in Finland are presented in Table 1.
Most of the List B diseases do not occur in Finland and those List B diseases which do occur are, with a few exceptions, rare.
3.1. Multi-species diseases
Table 2. Outbreaks of OIE List B multiple species diseases in Finland. The year of outbreak is the year when there last was an outbreak of the disease in Finland.
Anthrax
One cattle herd in 1988.Aujeszky’s disease
As a result of its disease-free status, Finland has been granted additional guarantees relating to Aujeszky’s disease under Commission Decision 94/961/EC of 28.12.1994. In 1999, a total of 10,056 pig blood samples originating from 5,802 farms were tested. All samples were negative.Echinococcosis
In 1999, eleven reindeer were found to be infected with Echinococcus granulosus.Leptospirosis
During 1998 and 1999 a total of 2,720 pig blood samples were collected; 12.9 % of these were seropositive. In 1999, no Leptospira antibodies were detected in cattle. There were no cases of clinical leptospirosis in Finland in 1999.Rabies
In 1999, there were no cases of rabies. During the year the brains of 507 animals were examined for rabies.The last case of rabies in Finland dates back to 16 February 1989. Finland was declared free of rabies at the end of February 1991, i.e. when two years had lapsed from the last confirmed case.
In order to prevent a new outbreak of rabies, the annual vaccination of wild animals continued in the autumn of 1999. A total of 80,000 baits containing rabies vaccine were dropped from the air along Finland’s Southeast border covering an area 20-30 kilometres wide and 250 kilometres long. The vaccination programme was started in 1988. The vaccination of hunting dogs against rabies remains obligatory, and the vaccination of all other dogs, and cats, is also recommended. A valid rabies vaccination certificate is required when importing dogs and cats aged over three months into Finland, with the exception of animals imported from rabies-free countries.
Paratuberculosis
Paratuberculosis was found in imported cattle in 1993. This was the first outbreak of the disease in Finland since 1920. The outbreak led to annual testing, and a few isolated antibody-positive samples have been found. The screening has been concentrated in beef cattle. In 1999, clinical paratuberculosis was diagnosed in one beef animal. In Finland, no cases of paratuberculosis have ever been identified in other ruminants.The cattle testing for paratuberculosis was extended to cover dairy cattle in the autumn of 1998. Voluntary participants are expected to include herds which sell cattle to centres for rearing A.I. bulls. In 1999, samples originating from 67 different herds were tested; a total of 81 herds have been tested since the launch of the project. The project will continue into the year 2000.
3.2. Cattle diseases
OIE List B diseases
Table 3. Outbreaks of OIE List B cattle diseases in Finland. The year of outbreak is the year when there last was an outbreak of the disease in Finland.
Babesiosis (Red-water fever)
In 1999, according to the monthly reports submitted by the municipal veterinarians, a total of 61 cases of babesiosis were diagnosed.Brucellosis (Brucella abortus)
Brucellosis prevention was instigated in Finland as early as the 1920s. As a result of its disease-free status, Finland has been granted an officially bovine brucellosis-free status (Commission Decision 94/960/EC of 28.12. 1994 confirmed by Commission Decision 2000/69/EC). A disease-free status can only be maintained if all suspected cases of brucellosis are tested and by the continuation of screening programmes.Dairy cattle have been tested annually, through screening programmes, since 1990 (Table 4) and beef cattle by sampling since 1994 (Table 5). A.I. bulls and their herds of origin are also tested, as are some cases of abortion in cattle. In 1999, this led to the testing of 1,854 samples from different herds. All samples were negative.
Bovine tuberculosis
The last outbreak of bovine tuberculosis in Finland was limited to one cattle herd in 1982. Tuberculosis control commenced in Finland at the beginning of the century. Today the testing undertaken at meat inspection is the most important factor in tuberculosis control.As a result of is disease-free status, Finland has been granted an officially bovine tuberculosis -free status (Commission Decision 94/959/ EC of 28.12.1994 and confirmed by Commission Decision 2000/69/EC).
A health monitoring programme for the prevention of tuberculosis in deer was launched in 1997.
Cysticercosis
In 1999, there were no cases of cysticercosis.Enzootic bovine leukosis
The prevention of bovine leukosis was commenced in the 1960s. At the end of 1996 Finland informed the European Commission that the country was free from leukosis in accordance with Council Directive 64/432/EEC, with the exception of Åland. In 1997, Åland started to monitor its leukosis status, with the objective of reaching leukosis-free status. No cases of leukosis have occurred in Åland from 1997 to 1999. On 13 July 1999 Åland was added to Finland’s officially leukosis-free status (Commission Decision 1999/465/EC).The national leukosis screening programme, which was commenced in 1990, continued during 1999. Since 1991 all Finnish dairy herds have been screened annually for leukosis by means of bulk milk samples. (Table 4). Individual blood samples from beef cattle have been tested since 1993 (Table 5).
In addition to the above screening programme 3,278 further blood and milk samples, collected from cattle herds in suspected leukosis cases and for various artificial insemination purposes, were tested in 1999. No samples were positive to leukosis.
Table 4. Bulk milk survey at dairy farms in 1990-1999.
1) The same cattle that was subject to restrictive measures and slaughtered in summer 1994
2) 5,024 samples
3) 4,546 samples
4) The same herd as in 1995
5) 3,773 samples
6) 2,944 samples
7) 2,760 samples
8) 99 farms, 8 of which were positive for the first time
9) 3,310 samples
10) 87 farms, 9 of which were positive for the first timeIBR/IPV (Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis / infectious pustular vulvovaginitis)
As a result of its disease-free status, Finland has been granted additional guarantees relating to IBR/IPV (Commission Decision 94/962/EC of 28.12.1994).The first case of the disease was diagnosed in 1990 in a sample survey of dairy herds. A total of 6 dairy herds were found to be infected. The last positive herd was slaughtered in the summer of 1994.
Dairy herds have been tested annually since 1990 (Table 4). Individual blood samples from beef cattle have been examined since 1993 (Table 5). In addition to the above screening programme 2,296 further milk and blood samples, collected during the health monitoring programme of A.I. bulls, were tested in 1999. All results were negative.
Malignant catarrhal fever
Isolated cases of herpes virus induced malignant catarrhal fever have been diagnosed in Finland. In 1999, the diagnosis of malignant catarrhal fever was made in one case.BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy)
BSE has never been diagnosed in Finland. At the end of 1997 Finland applied to the European Commission for a BSE-free status. Finland sent a new, supplemented application to the Commission on 8 June 1998 as part of a risk assessment covering all Member States. The risk assessment is due to be completed in the year 2000. Finland’s application is still under deliberation.The import of live cattle from Great Britain into Finland was banned in the autumn of 1988. In the 1980s, prior to the ban, 84 beef animals had been imported from Great Britain. In 1990, all these animals were traced, and veterinarians were asked to be on the alert for BSE. In 1996, the Veterinary and Food Department decided that any remaining cattle imported from Great Britain would be destroyed at public expense. The brains of the destroyed animal would be examined for BSE and the carcass would then be destroyed in such a way as to prevent it from entering either the human or animal food chain. In 1997, information on both the number and location of all offspring from cattle imported from Great Britain, prior to the import ban of 1988, was collected for the Veterinary and Food Department. Since 1980, bovine embryos have been imported from Great Britain only once, in 1985. No bovine sperm has been imported from Great Britain since 1980.
In 1990, the feeding of ruminants with imported meat-and-bone meal was banned. In 1994, the feeding of ruminants with meat-based waste was banned. And in 1995, the feeding of ruminants with mammal-meat-and-bone meal of Finnish origin was also banned.
A new Decision on the control of BSE entered into force in Finland in 1998. The Decision contains detailed provisions on measures to be taken if an outbreak of BSE is suspected or confirmed on a farm. The Decision further lays down rules for BSE screening programmes to be carried out on farms and abattoirs. In 1999, the National Veterinary and Food Research Institute examined 91animals for BSE, with negative results. The state compensates the value of an animal that has been ordered to be killed and examined because of a suspicion of BSE.
Table 5. Blood samples from meat cattle in 1993-1998. Since 1995 most samples have been taken at slaughterhouses. A dash means that no check was made of the said disease.
1) 1-2 positive samples in most cattle
2) 276 samples
3) 644 samples
4) 368 samples
5) 321 samplesOther cattle diseases
Bovine salmonellosis
In 1999, restrictive measures were imposed on a total of 39 cattle herds as a result of salmonellosis. The strains isolated on the salmonella-positive cattle farms represented nine different serotypes, the most common ones being S. Infantis and S. Typhimurium. In 1999, salmonellosis was diagnosed on 20 farms. At the end of the year, 8 cattle herds were subject to restrictive measures as a result of salmonellosis.Bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD)
The voluntary BVD control programme, launched in Finland in 1994, continued during 1999. Through national bulk milk sampling, 89 herds were found to have antibodies against the BVD virus in 1999, nine herds being positive for the first time. In 1999, four herds were found to harbour animals excreting the virus; three of these herds had previously been BVD-free. In the BVD testing of beef cattle, 24 antibody-positive samples were found out of the total of 2,920 individual blood samples tested.3.3. Sheep and goat diseases
OIE List B diseases
Table 6. Outbreaks of OIE List B sheep and goat diseases in Finland. The year of outbreak is the year when there last was an outbreak of the disease in Finland.
Brucella melitensis
Brucella melitensis has never been diagnosed in Finland. As a result of its disease-free status, Finland has been granted an officially Brucella-melitensis-free status (Commission Decision 94/965/EC of 28.12. 1994). A disease-free status can only be maintained if annual antibody testing is carried out. In 1999, a total of 6,177 blood samples originating from 183 sheep flocks and 168 blood samples originating from 19 goat flocks, were serologically tested. All results were negative.Ovine Maedi-Visna and CAE
Maedi-Visna was diagnosed in Finland for the first time in 1981 in imported sheep that were under quarantine. So far, samples originating from 14 different Finnish farms have tested positive. There have never been any cases of CAE.The first comprehensive serological Maedi-Visna and CAE screening programme was carried out in 1994. (Table7). A Maedi-Visna control programme, based on voluntary participation, was launched in connection with the screening. Maedi-Visna antibodies were last detected in 1996 on one sheep all farm. In 1999, a total of 10,660 sheep and goat blood samples were tested for Maedi-Visna and CAE. All results were negative.
Table 7. Blood samples from sheep and goat flocks in 1994-1999. The samples have been taken from animals aged over one year.
1) 5,958 samples from 317 sheep flocks and 52 samples from 23 goat flocks
2) 6,000 samples from 222 sheep flocks and 814 samples from 78 goat flocks
3) 3,521 samples from 345 sheep flocks and 341 samples from 62 goat flocks
4) 10,757 samples from 340 sheep flocks and 619 samples from 63 goat flocks
5) 6,177 samples from 183 sheep flocks and 168 samples from 19 goat flocksScrapie
Scrapie has never been diagnosed in Finland. Since 1995 abattoir screening has been carried out for sheep scrapie. Under a Decision on the control of scrapie, issued by the Veterinary and Food Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and which entered into force in 1997, all flocks with more than 40 ewes or she-goats must participate in a farm-based scrapie control programme. The participating farms are inspected at least once a year by their municipal veterinarian. At regular intervals the farms must also submit the heads of some over two-year-old sheep or goats for examination. The Decision further stipulates that all farms in Finland must report all over two-year-old sheep or goats with central nervous system symptoms. If the animal does not recover, the head of such animal is also submitted for examination.In the autumn of 1997, Finland applied for scrapie-free status from the European Union. The application made particular reference to the following points:
- Scrapie has never been diagnosed in Finland,
- Finland has a strict importation policy, which allows the import of sheep and goats only from scrapie-free countries, and
- Finland has introduced both a national scrapie screening programme and a farm-based control programme, and in connection with these programmes sheep farmers have received comprehensive information about the symptoms of scrapie.
Finland presented a new, supplemented application to the Commission on 8 June 1998. Finland’s application is still under treatment.
Table 8. The number of samples examined for scrapie in 1995-1999. All samples were negative.
1) The figure includes the 68 heads from 30 different farms, as well as two goats, examined as part of the farm-specific scrapie control programme.
2) The figure includes the 140 heads from 43 different farms, examined as part of the farm-specific scrapie control programme.Other sheep diseases
Sheep salmonellosis in 1999
In 1999, there were no cases of salmonellosis on sheep farms.
3.4. Equine diseases
OIE List B diseases
Table 9. Outbreaks of OIE List B equine diseases in Finland. The year of outbreak is the year when there last was an outbreak of the disease in Finland. The year refers to the last incidence of the disease in Finland.
Contagious equine metritis (CEM)
A case of contagious equine metritis was diagnosed in one imported mare in 1993. All stallions kept for breeding must be tested annually for Taylorella equigenitalis before the start of the breeding season. Finnish Horse stallions form an exception, as they are tested when accepted for breeding. In 1999, a total of 221 horses were tested, all with negative results.Horse influenza
In 1999, the National Food and Veterinary Research Institute tested one horse nasal swab for the influenza virus, with negative result. Twenty-six samples were submitted for horse influenza antibody testing; 19 were positive for serum antibodies. Seventeen of these had serum antibodies against Type H3N8(A2). In national and international races all participating horses must be vaccinated. Vaccination is not compulsory for trotting-horses.Equine rhinopneumonitis/viral abortion
Herpes virus infections (EHV1 and EHV4 as the causative agents) are quite common in Finland. Abortions, respiratory tract and nervous system symptoms have been noted in the few isolated clinical cases. In 1999, the herpes virus was isolated from two of the aborted foetuses, sent to the National Veterinary and Food Research Institute for examination, which underwent a virological examination. Antibodies were detected in 43 % (47/110) of the diagnostic serum submissions from the same year.Equine viral arteritis
In the 1990s antibodies against equine viral arteritis have been detected in about 20% of the horses tested. There have been no outbreaks of mass abortion in Finland. In 1999, The National Veterinary and Food Research Institute tested 107 samples serologically for viral arteritis, 27 of which were positive. Thirty samples tested virologically were all negative.Piroplasmosis
Clinical piroplasmosis has never been diagnosed in Finland. Antibodies have been detected from serum samples of a few imported horses. In 1999, twelve serum samples from imported horses were tested for piroplasmosis antibodies. No antibodies were detected.
Other equine diseases
Of bacterial infections, there were three cases of strangles in 1999.
3.5. Pig diseases
OIE List B diseases
Table 10. Outbreaks of OIE List B swine diseases in Finland. The year of outbreak is the year when there last was an outbreak of the disease in Finland.
Atrophic rhinitis
In 1999, there were no pathologically, anatomically or bacteriologically confirmed cases of atrophic rhinitis.TGE (transmissible gastroenteritis) and PRCV (porcine respiratory corona virus)
TGE has not been isolated in Finland since 1981when there were two confirmed cases, both of foreign origin. As a result of its disease-free status, Finland has been granted additional guarantees relating to TGE under the EEA Treaty (Decision 68/94/COL of 27.6.1994 by EFTA’s Supervisory Authority). Additional guarantees have also been applied for from the European Union.In 1992, an annual screening programme was launched, where random blood samples from breeding sows, breeding boars and fattened pigs are collected from abattoirs. The number of samples collected is proportional to the number of animals slaughtered at each abattoir (Table 11). In 1999, all samples tested for TGE were also negative for PRCV (porcine respiratory corona virus). PRCV has never occurred in Finland.
Trichinosis
The meat inspection of pigs, horses and carnivorous game (bear, wild boar etc.) always includes a laboratory test for trichinae. If trichinae are found, the entire carcass is destroyed. In the 1980s and 1990s, as a result of meat inspections, trichinae have annually been found from pigs originating from 0-20 farms. In 1999, trichinae were found in ten pigs originating from four different farms. No trichinae were found in horses. In 1999, three bears and two farmed wild boars were also found to be infected with trichinae.PRRS (porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome)
PRRS testing forms a part of both a compulsory (legislated) health monitoring programme of boar centres and a voluntary programme of pig farms. As a result of a suspected case of PRRS, 129 samples were tested serologically and two for virus isolation. All samples tested were negative.Other pig diseases
Pig salmonellosis
In 1999, Salmonella Infantis was isolated on one pig farm. Further, a post-mortem on a piglet originating from a different farm revealed, in addition to enteric colibacillosis, an infection by S. Enteritidis. Faecal samples collected from the pig farm were negative.Voluntary health monitoring programme for pigs
The programme must be implemented on farms which provide trial groups for test stations. The infectious diseases which are covered by the pig farms’ voluntary health monitoring programme are: enzootic pneumonia, atrophic rhinitis, dysentery, Actinobacillus pleuroneumoniae infection, Clostridium perfringens type C infection, salmonellosis, and scab. The pig farms are further tested for porcine brucellosis, Aujeszky’s disease, SVD, PRRS, HEV, swine influenza, TGE/PRCV (porcine respiratory corona virus) and classical swine fever.
In 1999, as part of the health monitoring programmes 4,768 blood samples from boar centres, breeding pig farms and wild boar farms (38 samples) were tested for Aujeszky’s disease, 4,762 for classical swine fever, 4,546 for TGE, 4,530 for SVD, 4,679 for PRRS, 4,486 for swine influenza and 5,037 for porcine brucellosis. The figures are presented in Table 11.
Table 11. Survey blood samples from sows, boars and fattened pigs in 1991-1998. The samples examined were negative. In 1991-1997 all samples were taken at slaughterhouses. In 1998 blood samples from slaughterhouses were examined for Aujeszky’s diseases and TGE. The rest of the results are from samples taken in connection with health control programmes.
3.6. Poultry diseases
OIE List B diseases
Table 12. Outbreaks of OIE List B Poultry diseases in Finland. The year of outbreak is the year when there last was an outbreak of the disease in Finland.
Avian tuberculosis
In 1995, three cases of avian tuberculosis caused by M. avium intracellulare were diagnosed in three imported ostriches, which all belonged to the same import batch.In 1999, M. avium was isolated in one chicken, one pheasant, one lesser white-fronted goose, one goldeneye and in one goosander.
Infectious bursal disease (Gumboro disease)
In 1999, there were a few cases of symptomless Gumboro disease in broilers, but there has not been a case of clinical Gumboro disease in Finland since 1993. The majority of breeding poultry and some of production poultry are vaccinated against Gumboro disease.Marek’s disease
There were a few cases of Marek’s disease. It remains the most significant infectious disease of egg laying hens in Finland. All production egg layers and the majority of breeding poultry are vaccinated against the disease.Other poultry diseases
TRT/SHS (Turkey rhinotracheitis / swollen head syndrome)
The prevalence of ART (=TRT/SHS) has been monitored since 1993, with serological testing, with negative results until May 1999 when in a breeding broiler house ART (Avian Rhinotracheitis = TRT/SHS) was diagnosed on symptoms and positive antibody findings. Restrictive measures were imposed on the farm and at a later stage all the birds from the farm were destroyed. No antibodies to the disease were detected on the breeding house’s contact farms, and no symptoms of the disease were observed. However, slight increases in the antibody levels were detected when other breeding broilers (originating from 8 different breeding houses) were screened, but as these farms remained symptom free, the diagnosis of ART was not made. No ART antibodies have been detected prior to May 1999 or after the summer of 1999. In 1999, almost 5000 blood samples were tested.Based on its disease-free status, Finland has been granted additional guarantees relating to ART (= TRT/SHS) under the EEA Treaty (Decision 195/94/COL of 30.11.1994 by EFTA’s Supervisory Authority). Additional guarantees have also been applied for from the European Union.
Poultry salmonellosis
In 1999, there were no cases of salmonellosis in poultry breeding houses in the egg-laying sector. An outbreak occurred in four poultry houses of production egg layers. The causative agents were S. Enteritidis, S. Infantis and S. Typhimurium in two houses.In one broiler breeding house three different serotypes were identified: S. Bardo, S. Brandenburg and S. Newport.
In 1999, salmonellosis was diagnosed in 64 different broiler flocks. The distribution of the serotypes is shown in the table below.
In 1999, S. Typhimurium FT1 was isolated in turkeys originating from two different farms.
Table 13. Salmonella-positive broiler flocks by serotype in 1998. Both S. Infantilis and S. Livingstone were found in one batch.
The general health status of poultry in Finland in 1999
The general health status of poultry in Finland is very good. The health status of poultry has been monitored in Finland since 1989. The monitoring programme has been developed mainly for farms engaged in chick production. The objective of the programme is to monitor the effectiveness of vaccinations and the health status of participating farms.
Today, as part of the health monitoring programme, antibody testing is carried out for Gumboro disease, avian encephalomyelitis (AE), Mycoplasma gallisepticum, Mycoplasma synoviae, avian infectious bronchitis (IB), avian infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) and blue wing diseases (CAV). There have been no cases of mycoplasmosis, avian infectious bronchitis (IB) or avian infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) in Finland.
As part of the health monitoring programme for turkeys, antibody testing is carried out for Mycoplasma gallisepticum, Mycoplasma synoviae and Mycoplasma meleagridis and ART (=TRT/SHS).
3.7. Lagomorph diseases
OIE List B diseases
Table 14. Outbreaks of OIE List B lagomorph diseases in Finland. The year of outbreak is the year when there last was an outbreak of the disease in Finland.
Tularaemia
In recent years there have been 10-20 cases of tularaemia annually. In 1999, there were 11 cases of tularaemia in wild lagomorphs. The tularaemia strain prevalent in Finland has not been observed to infect animals other than lagomorphs.3.8. Fish diseases
OIE List B diseases
Table 15. Outbreaks of OIE List B fish diseases in Finland.
Infectious haematopoietic necrosis (IHN) and Viral haemorrhagic septicaemia (VHS)
IHN and VHS screening continued from the beginning of 1999 with the continuation of twice yearly inspections on all farms which have fish species susceptible to IHN or VHS (salmonids, pike). A sample consisting of 30 fish per farm is collected every other year. Natural feed ponds are inspected following a separate programme of their own. The figures for the screening programme in 1999 are presented in Table 16.Table 16. IPN/IHN/VHS survey studies of fish in 1999.
Spring viraemia of carp (SVC)
In 1999, four cyprinid farms were tested for SVC. All results were negative. Based on its disease-free status, Finland has applied for additional guarantees relating to SVC from the European Union.Other fish diseases
Gyrodactylus salaris
A control programme has been instigated in Northern Lapland against Gyrodactylus salaris infection, in the watercourses of Tenojoki, Näätämönjoki, Paatsjoki, Luttojoki and Uutuanjoki in order to prevent the spread of the parasite into the wild salmon stock of the Arctic Ocean. This protected area in Northern Finland was added to the Commission Decision on protective measures in 1997 (Commission Decision 96/490/EC, amendment 98/24/EC). Based on the control programme, Finland has applied for additional guarantees relating to Gyrodactylus salaris infection from the European Union.The parasite is fairly common in rainbow trout and salmon farms in other parts of Finland. The transfer of live fish from these areas to the protected area is prohibited. In 1999, Gyrodactylus sp. was isolated at four fish farms, the host species being rainbow trout, salmon and grayling. Typing is being carried out by the Department of Biology at the University of Oulu.
In 1999, the wild fish in the waters flowing to the Arctic Ocean were examined for the Gyrodactylus salaris parasite as follows (all samples were negative):
Tenojoki watercourse: 152 salmon parr
Näätämönjoki watercourse: 84 salmon parr
Uutuanjoki watercourse: no studies done due to the smallness of the river.
Paatsjoki watercourse: 197 so-called good natural indicators [lake trout (Salmo trutta lacustris), powan (Coregonus lavaterus), arctic charr, grayling, vendace (Coregonus albula)]. A large Gyrodactylus birmani parasite was found on the fin of an arctic charr originating from lake Inari. A further 260 good indicator fish (salmon and arctic charr) were examined originating from the two fish farms on the watercourse.
Luttojoki watercourse: 65 graylingsInfectious pancreatic necrosis (IPN)
The last case of IPN in the inland water areas was in 1992. The transfer of live fish from the coastal areas to the inland water areas is forbidden and the transfer of spawn is allowed only after the brood fish have been tested for IPN with negative results.The IPN screening is carried out using the same samples as are used for IHN/VHS testing. In 1999, one case of IPN was diagnosed on a coastal farm, which produces fish for consumption, in South West Finland. Based on the control programme Finland has applied for additional guarantees relating to IPN from the European Union.
Bacterial kidney disease (BKD)
The first case of BKD was diagnosed in Finland in 1989, when it was isolated on a farm, which produces fish for consumption, in Åland. Since then, BKD has been diagnosed annually in Åland on 1-2 fish farms. The transfer of live fish and spawn from Åland to the Finnish mainland has been forbidden since 1989. In 1994, BKD was diagnosed for the first time outside Åland. In 1995, a BKD screening programme was instigated on salmonid farms. No new cases were found. In 1997, BKD was diagnosed in the inland waters on six fish farms in Northern Finland.The BKD screening programme includes annual bacteriological testing of samples on brood stock farms and a visual examination of fish kidneys on other farms. A clinical inspection only is carried out on farms which rear fish aged 0-1 year. As from the beginning of 1999, the screening programme has included the Province of Åland. In 1999, the causative agents of BKD were isolated on two farms, which produce fish for consumption, in Åland and on one juvenile producing farm in Northern Finland. Based on the control programme Finland has applied for additional guarantees relating to bacterial kidney disease from the European Union.
Furunculosis of salmonids
In 1999, furunculosis was diagnosed on 16 fish farms, out of which six produced only rainbow trout. As a result of its disease-free status, Finland has applied for additional guarantees relating to furunculosis from the European Union.Piscirickettsia salmonis infection
Piscirickettsia salmonis infection has never been diagnosed in Finland.Infectious salmon anaemia (ISA)
Infectious salmon anaemia has never been diagnosed in Finland.Vibriosis
The National Veterinary and Food Research Institute found vibriosis on 4 farms. It has become increasingly common to vaccinate fish, particularly rainbow trout parr produced for consumption, against furunculosis and vibriosis with an efficient combination vaccine.3.9 Fur animal diseases
In 1999, over 350 fur animal samples were submitted to the National Veterinary and Food Research Institute for pathological examination. The majority of the samples originated from blue foxes and mink. As in the previous years, infectious diseases have been kept well under control on fur farms. There were no cases of distemper, fox encephalitis, minks’ haemorrhaging pneumonia or fox mange. There were no cases of clinical mink viral enteritis , even though parvovirus was isolated as a secondary finding in a few mink intestinal samples and some mink had high levels of antibodies against parvovirus. Parvovirus is obviously still prevalent on the mink farms, but the comprehensive vaccination programme of mink kits seems to prevent an outbreak of viral enteritis.
At present the most significant infectious disease is plasmacytosis, i.e Aleutian Disease, which causes a chronic disease state in mink. The infection is widespread on farms, and sanitation programmes have been implemented to control the disease. A good 30% of all breeding animals are from plasmacytosis- free farms.
Infectious metritis, caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, has become a problem with blue foxes at breeding time. It was diagnosed on two farms. Salmonella induced meningitis was encountered in blue fox cubs on two separate farms. Blue fox intestinal adenomatosis was diagnosed on one farm and nosematosis, i.e. encephalitozoon, was also diagnosed in blue fox cubs on one farm.
Stunted growth and colitis was found on some weaned mink kits on several farms. Campylobacter jejuni was isolated from the colon of the mink, and this was considered to be the cause of colitis.
3.10. Bee diseases
OIE List B diseases
Table 17. Inspections for OIE List B bee diseases carried out in Finland in 1998. (*The examinations for acariosis of bees were carried out at the Agricultural Research Centre)
American foulbrood
American foulbrood caused by the Paenibacillus larvae is common in Finland. It is a notifiable disease. In 1999 restrictions were in force on 25 different areas because of american foulbrood.Acariasis
Acariasis of bees, a parasitic disease caused by an internal parasite, the Acarapis woodi mite, which lives in the tracheae of adult bees was first encountered in Finland in 1991.
Varroosis
The Varroa jacobsoni mite, an external parasite, was found for the first time in Finland in 1980. Slowly but surely it has spread from Southeast Finland to Southwest Finland and to the southern parts of the Province of Lapland in the north.Other bee diseases
Other fairly common bee diseases in Finland are European foulbrood caused by Melissococcus pluton, chalk brood caused by Ascosphaera apis fungus and enteritis in adult bees caused by the Nosema apis microsporidian. Chalk brood was found in 14 samples; a total of 15 samples were examined. The prevalence of viral diseases has not been extensively studied in Finland. So far, there have been no observations of serious viral diseases.
The welfare of an animal consists of its psychological, physical and social welfare. It is difficult to clearly define the concept of welfare or to measure the state or degree of welfare. Therefore, we assess an animal’s welfare according to the animal’s behaviour, the state of its health, various parameters that can be calculated for the animal, its productivity, and the quality and amount of the end product harvested.
Much progress has been made in animal protection throughout Europe. Scientific research on animal health and welfare has produced a great deal of new information on the prerequisites of animal welfare and on the basic needs essential for an animal. There has also been a change in our views on animal well being, on the animal’s value and on the proper treatment and handling of an animal. The rise in living standards and increase in human well being have led to demands to improve the quality of life of animals as well. Although man uses animals for food, clothing and other purposes, he has a moral obligation to respect all animals and satisfy the basic needs of the animals in his keeping.
ANIMAL WELFARE
Legislation on animal protection sets out the minimum requirements for the places where animals are kept, for the breeding and rearing conditions and for the care and treatment of animals. The law prescribes the general principles for the humane treatment of animals and minimum requirements for all activities involving animals. The legislation on animal protection today no longer aims solely at preventing unnecessary suffering and cruel treatment, but also at promoting animal health, happiness and general welfare.
Requirements concerning animal welfare are laid down in the Act on Animal Protection (247/1996, amend. 1194/1996 and 594/1998), Statute on Animal Protection (396/1996, amend. 402/1998), Statute on the Transport of Animals (491/1996, amend. 1398/1997 and 955/1998) and Statute on Animal Experimentation (1076/1985, amend. 395/1996). More exact and detailed provisions on requirements for the keeping, care, treatment and handling of animals have been laid down in several Decisions issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. The Decisions concern the keeping of different animal species and activities and measures involving animals.
Finland is party to all five conventions of the Council of Europe on animal protection. Finland signed the European Convention for the Protection of Animals during International Transport as early as 1975 and the European Convention for the Protection of Vertebrate Animals Used for Experimental and Other Scientific Purposes in 1990. In 1992 Finland became party to the European Conventions on the Protection of Animals Kept for Farming Purposes, on the Protection of Pet Animals and on the Protection of Animals for Slaughter.
The objective of the Finnish Act on Animal Protection is to protect animals from suffering, pain and distress in the best manner possible and to promote the welfare and good treatment of animals. The Act concerns all animals, both wild animals and animals kept by humans, such as pets, domestic animals and farmed animals. Acts, Statutes and ministerial Decisions lay down the conditions necessary to protect animals from suffering that can be avoided or prevented. An important principle in animal care is good treatment and the prevention of unnecessary suffering. In animal keeping, the animal’s health must be promoted and attention must be paid to its physiological and behavioural needs.
While legislation prescribes principles, the animal carer is responsible for the animal’s well being in practice. He or she becomes the animal’s “next of kin”. The animal’s welfare depends directly on its carer’s expertise, professional skills and work motivation.
Table 18. The number of domestic animals in Finland on 1.12.1999.
4.1 The place where animals are kept
The place where an animal is kept is its home: a familiar and safe haven. It must be sufficiently large, sheltered, well-lit, clean, safe and appropriate in every respect. The place of keeping must not cause harm to an animal or endanger its health. It must be roomy enough to permit the animal to move about, stand and lie down in its natural position. It must be designed so as to permit convenient care and inspection of the animal. The animal must be sufficiently protected against inclement weather, excessive cold, heat and dampness. Conditions in the place of keeping must be such that they allow the animal to remain healthy and in a good state of well-being. The place of keeping must be sufficiently ventilated to prevent dust, draft, noxious gases and excessive dampness from undermining the animal’s health or welfare. The animal’s immediate surroundings must permit it to satisfy its most important behavioural and physiological needs.
Efforts are made to design new places of keeping that permit greater freedom of movement. For example free-stall barns and exercise yards are being built. Both scientific studies and extensive practical experience testify to the importance of exercise in an animal’s health and welfare. Fresh air and exercise improve mental and physical well-being and improve an animal’s resistance to infections, thereby decreasing morbidity.
4.2 The care and treatment of animals
An animal that depends on the care of humans must not be abandoned. Animals must never be treated or handled roughly or violently, but always in a calm and reasonable way. They must not be frightened or excited unnecessarily. Their natural patterns of behaviour, for example their herd instinct, must be taken advantage of when handling them. A relationship of mutual trust should exist between the animal and its carer. It should be remembered that animals, too, need peace and sufficient rest. Their welfare and living conditions should be inspected regularly. Sick and weak animals and animals about to give birth need frequent checking and special care from their keeper. A sick or injured animal must receive adequate care without delay and if necessary it must be isolated from the other animals to ensure sufficient rest and peace.
An adequate supply of nourishment and drink suitable for the animal is essential to its welfare and health. The feed must be of good quality and composed so that it can be easily consumed by the animal. The feed must contain all the necessary nutrients in the correct proportions. It must not contain poisonous or hazardous substances or other impurities that may have a detrimental effect on the animal’s welfare and health. Each animal’s needs must be taken into account, and it must be ensured that each animal receives enough nourishment. If an animal is weaker or more timid than the others in a large herd, it risks remaining without its portion of feed unless the animal carer prevents the stronger animals from dominating the feeding area.
In addition to food and drink, animals need other attention, such as washing and grooming. It is important that animals have enough to do, and they should be offered opportunities to be active. Animals often obtain their food without much effort and in a compact form, and so they have plenty of spare time. As a consequence considerable attention has been paid recently in developing methods which would add interest into animals’ lives.
4.3. Animal breeding and gene technology
According to legislation, animal breeding must have regard to the animals’ welfare and health. It prohibits both animal breeding and breeding methods that may cause suffering or seriously impair an animal’s health or welfare.
The Act on Animal Protection prohibits the use of gene technology to alter the quantity or quality of animal production if it detrimentally affects the animals’ health or welfare. An animal’s genotype can be altered with gene technology, but there is little experience or research information on the effect of this method on the welfare of production animals.
4.4. Influencing performance or production
The Act on Animal Protection prohibits animal doping, i.e. the use of drugs or similar substances or preparations to artificially improve, lower or maintain an animal’s performance. Artificially improving the productivity of an animal with drugs or similar substances or preparations is likewise prohibited by the Act, unless it can be proved that these products do not harm the health or welfare of the animal. Special substances cannot be used to increase the productivity of an animal, unless it has been proven in scientific studies or by extensive established experience that these substances are harmless to animals. An animal may neither be fattened nor may its productivity be increased by force-feeding.
If there is any reason to suspect that special substances or preparations have been used to boost an animal’s performance, the animal welfare authority has a right to inspect the place where the animal is kept and take necessary samples. Associations arranging animal competitions routinely take samples from animals to ensure that an animal’s performance is not being enhanced by dishonest means. The practice of taking random samples to control doping is especially common in trotting-races.
4.5. Animal shelters
The Act on Animal Protection obligates municipalities to arrange temporary care for stray cats, dogs and other small pets found within municipal boundaries until the animal’s owner or keeper claims the impounded pet. Already prior to the new Act on Animal Protection that entered into force in 1996, many municipalities had established animal shelters for the lost local pets on their own initiative. Nowadays animal pounds are obligatory in every municipality. A municipality may establish a shelter jointly with other municipalities. There are over 80 shelters for stray animals in Finland.
An impounded animal is kept for a minimum of 15 days, after which the municipality has a right to sell, give away or put down an unclaimed animal. Most stray animals are returned to their owner, but others find a new home and owner through the municipal pound.A municipality has a right to charge the owner for the impounding of the animal, the care it was given at the shelter or the cost of putting it down, should this be necessary.
4.6. Animal competitions, zoos and circuses
If an animal risks being exposed to pain, distress or excessive strain in a competition, the organiser must summon a veterinarian who will supervise compliance with the animal welfare legislation. The organiser is liable for the related costs. The veterinarian must forbid the participation of an animal in the competition, if he or she suspects that the animal will be used in a manner that violates the law. If the owner of the animal refuses to comply with the prohibition issued by the veterinarian, it is the responsibility of the organiser of the competition to prevent the participation of the animal.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry may altogether prohibit animal competitions and similar events where pain, distress or excessive strain may be caused to animals.Zoos, permanent and travelling animal shows, and circuses must obtain a permit from the provincial government before they can start operating. The provincial government may revoke a permit if the conditions laid down, or the animal welfare legislation, are not complied with.
There are over 60 zoos and animal parks in Finland, most of which are rather small animal sanctuaries or farm enterprises. The biggest zoos are located in Helsinki (Korkeasaari Zoo), Ranua (Ranua Zoo), Ähtäri (Ähtäri Zoo), and Lieto (Zoolandia).
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has issued a Decision on which animals can be used in circuses and similar exhibitions where animals are taught to perform tricks. In Finland it is illegal, for example, to use predatory animals, primates, elephants, ostriches or seals in circuses. On the other hand, domestic animals such as cats, dogs and horses, are allowed to perform to the public at circuses.
4.7. Animal nurseries, pet shops, trotting and riding stables and farmed game
The Act on Animal Protection lists a number of activities that must be notified to the provincial government before they are started. This applies to the professional or large-scale keeping of pets and hobby animals, any setting aside of fenced areas for game management and keeping game or other wild animals for production purposes. Accordingly, pet shops, animal nurseries, large trotting and riding stables and large kennels must notify the provincial government of their activities. After receiving the notification, the provincial government may prohibit the activities if they do not comply with legislative requirements.
There are over 400 large kennels and pet shops in Finland, and over 600 trotting and riding stables. There are 111 farms where ostriches, emus, wild boars or bison are kept for production and 45 game farms kept for game management.
4.8. The transport of animals
Transport causes animals considerable stress, which is impossible to avoid because farm production animals often have to be transferred from the farm where they were born to the farm where they will be reared and later to the abattoir. Many animals travel around Europe to competitions, shows and for training. Family pets often go on holidays and other trips with their family.
Transporting animals for financial gain is subject to a licence in Finland. The licence is applied for from the provincial government. A licence has been granted to 407 animal transport operators. The majority, i.e. over 70%, of the operators are so-called one-man firms, where operations are handled by one man with one vehicle. The animal transport fleet is of good quality in Finland, where the climate alone sets strict requirements for the fleet.
The welfare of animals during transport and in all related operations is protected by the Act on Animal Protection and by the Statute on the Transport of Animals. The animals must not be caused any unnecessary pain or distress at any stage during transport, loading or unloading. During transport they must be protected from injury and illness. An animal may not be transported if it is not fit for the intended journey and also if no arrangements have been made to care for the animal during the journey and at the destination. A sick or injured animal may only be transported in exceptional cases. For example transporting an animal to a veterinarian is allowed under certain conditions.
As the quality of the transport fleet in Finland is good and the drivers are skilled in their job, animals are guaranteed appropriate conditions during transport. Animals for slaughter travel in vehicles that are well equipped and maintained, and they have an opportunity to rest during transport. Before granting a licence for the transport of animals, the provincial government checks that the drivers are well-trained professionals who will treat the animals properly complying with appropriate rules.
4.9. Killing and slaughter of animals
An animal has to be killed as quickly and painlessly as possible. It may only be done by a person who has sufficient expertise. Permissible killing methods for different animal species are prescribed in the Statute on Animal Protection and in more detail in the related ministerial Decision.
Slaughter is an essential part of the production chain for food of animal origin. Slaughter and related measures are subject to the same general principles that apply to any other treatment and handling of animals. An animal must not be caused unnecessary suffering, pain or distress while it is handled or kept in an abattoir. The rule of thumb being that before bleeding the animal must be stunned quickly, efficiently and for a sufficiently long period of time. Bleeding must be started immediately after stunning. No other measures are to be performed on the animal before it is dead. In addition to meat inspection duties, the inspecting veterinarian ensures that the abattoir complies with the legislation.
4.10. Animal welfare authorities and supervision
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry directs, guides and generally supervises compliance with the animal welfare legislation. In provinces, compliance is supervised by provincial veterinarians working for provincial governments. Municipal veterinarians, health inspectors and the police act as the local animal welfare authorities. Inspecting veterinarians supervise compliance with the law at abattoirs and places of slaughter, and border veterinarians at border crossings, exit points and veterinary border control points. The police are mainly responsible for controlling animal transport on roads, but at abattoirs their responsibility is taken over by the inspecting veterinarian.
There are also a number of animal welfare inspectors whom the provincial government has authorised to make animal welfare inspections as referred to in law. However, these inspectors cannot perform official duties but have to contact the appropriate authority who will take the measures necessary to improve animal welfare. At present there are 31 animal welfare inspectors. Various societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals have inspectors working as volunteers, but under legislation they do not have a right to make inspections.
If there is any reason to suspect that an animal is being cared for, treated, used or transported in violation of the animal welfare legislation, the animal welfare authority has a right to make an inspection. Inspections may also be carried out, without a suspected violation, in places where operations are subject to a licence from or a notification to the provincial government as referred to in the Protection of Animals Act. Such places include zoos and animal shows, pet shops, nurseries for small animals, large kennels, circuses, game preserves, and trotting and riding stables. Similarly, inspections may be conducted at animal competitions and other such events even in the absence of a suspected violation. This also applies to the inspection of animal transport by the police. Inspection veterinarians may inspect abattoirs and their surroundings even if there is no reason to suspect a violation. In 1999 veterinarians performed over 4,700 animal welfare inspections.
The person carrying out the inspection must be allowed access to all the places where animals are kept and the right to take any necessary samples. During the inspection the animals themselves are inspected, as well as the place where they are kept and its condition, the food, drink and equipment meant for the animals. The authority inspecting animal transport is naturally also entitled to check the means of transport.
4.11. Official measures
If an animal welfare inspection reveals a violation of the animal welfare legislation, the authority shall forbid the owner or keeper of the animal to continue the illegal activities or order him or her to comply with the minimum legal requirements regarding an animal’s pen, conditions, care and treatment. The authority must also set a time limit for compliance with the order. After the time limit has expired, a new inspection is carried out at the animal holding units to ensure that the order given by the authority has been followed. If necessary, the provincial government can make the order more effective by imposing a fine or threatening that otherwise the matter will be handled at the defaulter’s expense.
Advice and guidance given by the authorities on how to improve animal welfare form a significant part of the benefit offered by these inspections. Advice is given in cases where the Act on Animal Protection has not been violated, but where the environment, conditions and care of an animal can be improved by guiding the animal carer on how to remove some of the minor defects noted in the way the animal is kept.
If necessary, the inspector can take immediate measures to secure the welfare of an animal. The animal may be sent to be cared for elsewhere, or a carer may be hired to safeguard the welfare of the animal. Feed or any other substance essential to the animal’s welfare may be obtained. The authority also has a right to sell the animal, have it slaughtered or put down. In the case of production animals it is usually best to hire a substitute carer at the animal holding unit or send the animals to the abattoir. Small animals are usually sent to a nursery or kennel for care. Animals that are in an extremely poor condition are usually put down.
4.12. Animal experiments
In Finland the use of vertebrate animals for experimental purposes is subject to a licence from the provincial government. There are 113 experimental establishments in Finland. The Statute on Animal Experimentation lays down detailed conditions for experimentation. It contains provisions on the supervision of animal experiments, the use, purchase and keeping of animals, the competence of the persons performing the experiments and of the animal carers and the supervising authority’s right to interrupt an individual experiment or all animal experiments at the establishment.
In addition to the licence required for the activity itself, each animal experiment requires a permit. If the experiment will cause the animal only slight pain or distress or pain or distress of short duration, the committee set up at the institute can grant the permit. If the experiment may cause the animal a serious illness or substantial pain or distress, the provincial government can grant the permit.
A doctor, a veterinarian or another person who holds a university degree and has attended a course on animal experiments and the use of animals for scientific purposes can perform experiments on animals.
The institute must keep a list of all animal experiments performed and of the animals used classified by species. The statistics must be delivered every year to the provincial government and from there to the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, which compiles annual statistics of the animal experiments carried out in Finland and of the animals used. These statistics are sent every year to the secretary general of the Council of Europe and to the European Commission.
The provincial government is responsible for supervising animal experiments. Its representative has a right to be present at animal experiments and conduct necessary inspections and investigations concerning experimental animals, their keeping and care and documents on the experiments. Legislation empowers the provincial government to interfere if an establishment or even an individual animal experiment violates animal welfare Acts.
Figure 1. Establishments conducting experiments (113 establishments)
Figure 2. Animals used in experiments (230 326 animals used)
4.13. EU inspections
EU inspections are carried out at animal units to supervise compliance with animal welfare directives. Animal transports are also inspected by conducting checks at loading and unloading places and on the road. The objective is to inspect 2% of all pig and calf units.
Inspections must be performed by a veterinarian. The farms to be inspected are chosen by random sampling from the register of farms. A municipal veterinarian is sent to conduct the inspection on the farm. Provincial veterinarians inspect animal transport vehicles on the road, while inspecting veterinarians conduct inspections at abattoirs’ unloading bays . A special NCR form has been designed to help the veterinarian to make the inspection run as smoothly as possible and to ensure that all aspects are covered during the inspection. The owner of the animals receives one copy of the completed inspection form. The provincial government gathers information on the inspections performed and on any relevant issues arising therefrom. The results are sent to the Ministry, which in turn reports the outcome to the European Commission.
In 1999, inspections were carried out at a total of 87 pig units and 510 calf units. About 246 animal transports were inspected. In most inspections the circumstances were in conformity with the Act on Animal Protection. The main concerns on calf units concerned the practice of keeping calves tethered or in crowded pens. The transport vehicles inspected were in good condition; no major structural defects were detected. All animal transport operators were licensed for their operations. A few inspections revealed some wear and tear in the vehicle structures or the number of animals allowed per vehicle were slightly exceeded.
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