10 years BSE in Switzerland - the development of a particular disease

The first case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in Switzerland was diagnosed in November 1990. BSE is - in particular considering its eradica tion - different from many other livestock diseases. Strict disease control measures were taken from the very beginning by the Swiss authorities in or der to protect public as well as animal health. In addition, BSE has stimul ated enormous media interest and public concern. The occurrence of the born after the ban (BAB) cases, increasing questions about the zoonotic potenti al of the disease and trade restrictions against Switzerland led to the "BS E-crisis". In 1999, Switzerland internationally took a leading role in the surveillance of BSE by active investigation of targeted risk population.