As the only vet in the House of Commons, Dr Neil Hudson MP used his veterinary expertise and background to raise the important recent human case of influenza A(H1N2)v - which is similar to influenza viruses currently circulating in pigs in the UK - and the need to invest in the development of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) HQ in Weybridge to cope with cases such as this.
At this week’s Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Questions, Dr Hudson had the opportunity to raise this as a topical question directly with the Minister of State, the Rt Hon Mark Spencer MP
Dr Neil Hudson MP said:
“Can the Minister give an update on the investigation by DEFRA and the UK Health Security Agency on the recently confirmed human case of influenza A(H1N2)v which is similar to influenza viruses currently circulating in pigs in the UK, and does my HF agree with me that infectious diseases like this with zoonotic potential underscore the importance of the Animal and Plant Health Agency for our national biosecurity and public health and that we should definitely be investing in the long term redevelopment of the APHA HQ in Weybridge?”
The Minister of State for Food, Farming and Fisheries, the Rt Hon Mark Spencer said:
“Swine influenza is endemic in the UK pig population, generally causing mild illness but UK HSA's investigation with support from DEFRA is ongoing. We're committed to upholding the UK's high level of biosecurity, work is underway with two-hundred million pounds across the current spending review to safeguard the long term future of Weybridge as a centre for scientific excellence in tackling very high risk diseases like this.”
Afterwards, Dr Neil Hudson said:
“I was pleased that I was able to raise this question with the Government regarding the recent human case of influenza A(H1N2)v and for an update on this situation. Diseases that cross from animals to people are of huge concern and show the vital role that the UK Health Security Agency and the Animal and Plant Health Agency have in protecting human and animal health.”
