Let's start by ensuring I don't start rumours. The title does not imply that BVD has been diagnosed in Norwich.
I realise I may need to explain a bit more here. BVD is a rather nasty viral disease of cattle (nasty for cattle, absolutely no risk to humans). It is also very common. We have been working with an action group, facilitated by DEFRA, trying to devise a plan for eradication in the UK. Other European countries have shown that eradication is possible and it is important for the UK cattle industry that we do not lag behind. Anyway, last night I was over in Norwich for the launch of a pilot scheme to start eradication of BVD in Norfolk and Suffolk. Norfolk may not quite be Scandinavia, where they are BVD-free now, but the low density of cattle compared to the rest of the UK make it a good starting point.
There is no quick fix. This will take years and a lot of dedication but hopefully last night marked the beginning of the journey.
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