BSE
- Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), more commonly referred to as “mad cow disease,” is a fatal neurodegenerative disease.
- BSE affects only cattle.
vCJD
- Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) is thought to be the human manifestation of BSE.
- vCJD is a degenerative neurological disorder (brain disease).
- vCJD is ultimately fatal.
- It is very rare, affecting only one in one million.
Transmission and Symptoms
- vCJD is thought (but not proven) to be transmitted through the consumption of infected animal tissue, specifically beef.
- vCJD is a neurodegenerative disease, usually presenting itself similarly to dementia.
- Other symptoms
- Prominent psychiatric/behavioral symptoms
- Delayed neurologic signs
- Painful sensations such as burning or pins and needles from neurological malfunctions
Treatment
- Currently, there is no treatment for vCJD.
- It is an ultimately fatal disease with average illness duration of 14 months.
Prevention
- Caution should be exercised by those in Europe and other areas with indigenous cases of BSE.
- You may consider avoiding beef or beef products that are not solid tissue (sausage, ground beef, and brains).
- Be aware of beef recalls when they occur.
- Remember that the possibility for infected beef is very small.
Where to Find Additional Information
Be Ready Navy—Be informed before, during, and after an incident; make a written family emergency plan; and build an emergency supply kit good for at least three days.
