Press Releases

Publications

Videos

Art & Symbols

Email Us

Privacy Statement
EEO Statement
USDA | MRP

APHIS Home Page

Printable version

Press Release

USDA ADOPTS FINAL RULE TO ADD FLORIDA TO THE LIST OF VALIDATED BRUCELLOSIS-FREE STATES

WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2005–The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Health Inspection Service is adopting as a final rule--without change--an interim rule amending brucellosis regulations concerning the interstate movement of swine by adding Florida to the list of validated brucellosis-free states.

The interim rule was based on APHIS’ determination that Florida meets the criteria for classification as a validated brucellosis-free state. That action relieved certain restrictions on the interstate movement of breeding swine from Florida.

Brucellosis is a contagious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella. The disease mainly affects bison, cattle and swine. Brucellosis causes the loss of young through spontaneous abortion or birth of weak offspring, reduced milk production and infertility.

The interim rule became effective May 2. Comments on the interim rule were due by July 1. Because no comments were received, we are adopting the interim rule as a final rule.

Notice of this final rule appeared in the Aug. 12 Federal Register. APHIS documents published in the Federal Register are available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ppd/rad/webrepor.html.

#

Note to Reporters: USDA news releases, program announcements and media advisories are available on the Internet. Go to the APHIS news release page at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/news/press.html. Also, anyone with an e-mail address can sign up to receive APHIS press releases automatically. Send an e-mail message to lyris@mdrdlyriss10.aphis.usda.gov and leave the subject blank. In the message, type
subscribe press_releases.