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<p>Zoonotic infections threaten both human and animal health. For zoonotic diseases,
we have systems in place to detect and manage outbreaks, for both endemic (those that
are already found in the UK) and exotic infections, collaborating closely with the
public health agencies.</p><p> </p><p>There are several pathogens of animals which
can potentially spread to humans as a result of the close interactions between humans
and animals on farm, including Salmonella and Mycobacterium bovis, but incidents of
this nature are rare. Nevertheless, we take biosecurity and protection of public health
very seriously.</p><p> </p><p>Employers are required by law to prevent ill health
to workers that may occur as a result of their business activities. Employers should
undertake a risk assessment to help decide what actions they need to take to do this.
The Health and Safety Executive regulates this.</p><p> </p><p>The Government is committed
to the strongest possible standards of protection against animal diseases including
zoonotic pathogens. It is investing £1.4 million (including £200 million in this Spending
Review period) to secure the long-term future of the Animal and Plant Health Agency
Weybridge facility. This substantial investment recognises the essential role of this
laboratory and will enable its excellent scientists to continue to protect the country,
boosting our resilience and strengthening our understanding of health risks to, and
from, animals and plants.</p>
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