BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY AND BRITISH ZOOS

Since 1986, when bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) was first recognized in domestic cattle, six cases of spongiform encephalopathy have been diagnosed in exotic bovids in British zoos. This paper reviews these cases and our current understanding of BSE. The effects of the disease on British zoos is also reviewed and possible future implications, both within the U.K. and elsewhere, are discussed.