1 MINISTERIO DE LA PRODUCCIÓN (MINISTRY OF PRODUCTION)

SECRETARIA DE AGRICULTURA, GA NADERIA, PESCA Y ALIMENTOS (SECRETARIAT OF AGRICULTURE, LI VESTOCK, FISHERIES AND FOODSTUFFS)

SERVICIO NACIONAL DE SANIDAD Y CALIDAD AGROALIMENTARIA

(NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH A ND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE)



### SENASA



## INFORMATION PROVIDED BY SENASA TO ATTAINRECOGNITION OF ARGENTINA ́S PATAGONIA AS A REGION, AS DEFINED IN SECTION 92.2, TITLE 9, OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS FOR FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE (FMD)

REPUBLIC OF ARGENTINA


### July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 2 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA) RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 1:

AUTHORITY, ORGANIZATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE OF THE VETERINARY SERVICES IN THE REGION

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 3 1- AUTHORITY, ORGANIZATION AND IN FRASTRUCTURE OF THE VETERINARY SERVICES IN THE REGION.

¿WHAT HUMAN RESOURCES ARE AVAIL ABLE IN THE REGION TO CARRY OUT CONTROL PROGRAMS FO R LIVESTOCK DISEASES? In Argentina, SENASA (National Animal Health and Agrif ood Quality Service) is the government agency responsible for carrying out animal health control programs. SENASA has its own budget within the Secretariat of Agricult ure, Livestock, Fisheries and Foodstuffs. The organizational charts and maps included in Annex I illustrate the structure and organization of SENASA and the Argent ine Animal Health System. Decree # 1585/96 defines the or ganizational structure of the new SENASA after the former SENASA (National Anim al Health Service) mer ged with IASCAV (Argentine Plant Health and Quality Institute). The new SENASA is responsible for ensuring the health of animal and plant prod ucts to protect the health of consumers, animals and plants, and conducting quality controls of local and imported products. SENASA is also responsible for establishing animal and plant health and quality policies, and ensuring compliance with the applicabl e current regulations. In addition, SENASA is responsible for all movements of animals within the country and the inspection of imported and export ed animals, animal and plant products and byproducts, agriproducts, pharmacological and veterinar y products, agrochemicals and fertilizers. SENASA's staff totals 3536 officials. In Animal Health, there are 4 main areas that report directly to the President of SENASA. These areas are:Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 4 • NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH OFFICE (DNSA)

• NATIONAL AGRIFOOD IN SPECTION OFFICE (DNFA)

• QUARANTINE, BORDERS AND CERTIFICATIONS UNIT (CCFyC)

• LABORATORIES AND TECHNICAL CONTROL OFFICE (DILACOT)

NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH OFFICE (DNSA) DNSA is specifically respons ible for animal health contro l and eradication programs, including the necessary preventive, contro l and eradication actions to ensure compliance with current statutes. T he actions defined by DNSA ar e carried out by the 316 Local Offices located throughout the country wh ich are staffed by 237 veterinary physicians, 436 animal technicians, and 181 admini strative employees. The Local Offices report to DNSA through 25 REGIONAL SU PERVISORS. The EPIDEMIOLOGY OFFICE of DNSA is responsible for carrying out, c oordinating, assessing and overseeing the FMD program. DNSA is also responsible for st rategic prevention activities, and surveillance and assessment of the vaccination programs. The or ganization and operational structure of DNSA is defined in SENASA Resolution # 274/2002. In addition to the Official Vete rinary Services (at the Feder al, Provincial and Municipal levels of government), the animal health syst em is strengthened by the support of a participatory structure based on 349 Local Animal Health Offices that we re created in 1989 for the FMD Eradication Program , 10 of these are located at the Patagonia region. These Local Offices that represent various local organizations, have technical Subcommittees chaired by official or private veterinary physicians that practice in the area that work very closely with SENASA.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 5 At a Regional level, there are 23 Provin cial Animal Health Committees (COPROSAS) that participate in the Nati onal FMD Eradication Committe e (CONALFA) which constitutes a forum for consensus where the prov incial governments, SENASA, and representatives of the farmers' associations define t he operational strategies to carry out the zoosanitary policies defined by SENASA. Diseases for which notification is mandator y must be reported to SENASA authorities (Section 4 of the Animal Health Law Enfo rcement Authority Act - # 3959 enacted in 1902 - states: " All owners or persons who in any ma nner are responsible for providing care or assistance to animals affected by a contagious disease or suspect animals, must immediately report the condition to th e local authority stated in the Animal Health Regulations" ). The system of Local Animal Health Offices is an important source of information because their trained staff visits all livestock op erations at least twic e a year to vaccinate the animals, and the information they gather serv es to strengthen the official inspection system of livestock operati ons, movements of animals, and livestock concentration markets. There are approximately 5,750 private veterinar y physicians working in rural areas that by law, are required to report epizootic dise ases (Act # 3959). In addition, these professionals participate in the technical subcommi ttees of the Regional and Local Animal Health Offices that strengt hen the eradication programs. The National Farming Technology Institute (INTA) which is part of SAGPyA, has a network of experimental and extension facilitie s in rural areas that receive updated information on the health status of the herds.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 6 The private laboratories accr edited by SENASA that partici pate in the Network of Laboratories are required to imm ediately report all epizootic di seases. Non-compliance with current regulations implies severe penalties.

NATIONAL AGRIFOOD INSPE CTION SERVICE (DNFA). At a national level, DNFA is responsible fo r ensuring that slaughtering plants, processing plants, and/or storage facilities for an imal and plant produc ts and byproducts (whether edible or inedible), comply with hygiene and he alth requirements. At the slaughtering plants approved for export, these controls are performed by the Veterinary Inspection Service.

QUARANTINE, BORDERS AND CE RTIFICATIONS UNIT (CCFyC). CCFyC is responsible for the ANIMAL AND PLANT QUARANTINE UNIT, the INTERNATIONAL MOVEMENTS UNIT, and t he BORDERS AND SANITARY BARRIERS UNIT that operates the control posts at the inland sani tary barriers and border crossings (ports, airports, and border crossings).

LABORATORIES AND TECHNICAL CO NTROL OFFICE (DILACOT) DILACOT - which has two Units - the Laborat ory for Animal Products and Byproducts and the Laboratory for Plant Pr oducts and Byproducts - is t he National Reference Laboratory for food safety and animal and plant health. In addition, DILACOT has Regional Laboratories and manages a countrywide Netw ork of Laboratories accredited by SENASA. DILACOT:Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 7 • Establishes the methods and test protoc ols to be used at the Central Laboratory and the laboratories that participate in SENASA's National Ne twork of Laboratories.

• Intervenes in dispute resolution.

• Confirms positive test results issued by the laboratories that participate in the Network of Laboratories.

• Carries out and participates in interlaboratory tests.

• Periodically audits the Network of Laboratories.

• Provides assistance to other SENASA offices to assess analytical results.

• Participates in reviewing regulations in it s field of action and attends International Fora (Codex Alimentarius, MERCOSUR, O.I.E., etc.). Table 1 : Animal Health Structure of the Ar gentine Patagonia below paralell 42. Chubut Santa Cruz Tierra del TOTAL SENASA ́s local offices 6 3 2 11

Commisions* 26 4 - 30

SENASA ́s veterinarians 7 3 2 12

SENASA ́s technicians 12 6 2 20

SENASA ́s Administrative Personnel 3 2 2 7

Provincial veterinarians 6 11 2 19

Private veterinarians 145 31 26 202Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 8 WHICH ARE THE PROCEDURES FOR SPECIMEN COLLECTION? The procedures for specimen coll ection are described in Annex II.

WHAT DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES A ND TECHNIQUES ARE ROUTINELY FOLLOWED FOR EACH DISEA SE AGENT OF CONCERN? The following techniques for diagnosis and identification of the FMD virus are used in Argentina:

• Antibody identificati on by ELISA testing

• Typing by ELISA testing

• Complement Fixation

• Virus isolation (in lactating mice and cell tissues)

• Virus identification by monoclonal antibodies

• Virus neutralization

• Seroprotection

• VIAA - IDGA

• 3 ABC ELISA

• EITB

• PCR

• Sequencing

• Inoculation in bovines under stringent biosafety conditions The above techniques are consistent with those listed in Chapter 2.1.1 - Foot and Mouth Disease - of the O.I.E. Manual of Standards for Diagnostic Tests and Vaccines - rev. 2000, and are included in SENASA's Operational Procedures and Instructions Manual (Virology Unit - SENASA - 2001).Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 9 The techniques used in Argentina for non-vesicular diseases are: Isolation of Bovine Herpes Virus in cell lines or in primary BFT or BFR cultures collected by vaginal, vulva or penis sw abbing, or from lesions of virus infected animals, or necropsy samples (lungs, brain, kidneys, etc.). Isolation of Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD) in cell lines or in primary BFT or BFR cultures, from samples of secretions or necr opsy (guts, ganglia, brain, etc.). Immunofluorescence of non-cyt opathic BVD strains. Techniques to measure antibodies: For IBR and BVD: serum neutralization. ELISA test - commercial kit. For Blue Tongue in sheep and cattle: imm unodiffusion (PANAFTOSA, PAHO), ELISA test (PANAFTOSA, PAHO). Vaccine Controls: For virus strains such as BHV-1, BVD: Specific safety in cell lines and non-specific safety in guinea pigs, toxicity in mice, serum conversion in guinea pigs.

WHAT LAWS, REGULATIONS AND POLICIES ARE IN EFFECT? (F OR EXAMPLE IS WASTE FEEDING OR WASTE-CONTAINING FEED PERMITTED AND, IF SO, WHAT RESTRICTIONS APPLY) See Annex III WHAT SECURITY MEASURES ARE IN PL ACE AT PORTS OF ENTRY TO CONTROL IMPORTATION OF MATERIALS T HAT MIGHT CARRY DI SEASE AGENTS OF CONCERN?Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 10 The procedures and criteria applied by Argentina for imported live animals, their genetic material, and animal products and byproducts , are based on the principles of Risk Analysis, Regionalization and Equivalence in cluded in the SPS Agreement of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the rules approv ed by the Office International des Epizooties (O.I.E.) The permits to import live animals, their ge netic material and animal products and byproducts must be approved by SENASA's Central Office. Prior to importing live animals, their genetic material, and animal products and byproducts, the importer must apply for an import pe rmit which is only issued if all the applicable zoosanitary requirements st ated in SENASA regulat ions are met. The import permit may be issued afte r an analysis and assessment of:

• The type of product that will be imported.

• The health status of the exporting country.

• Approval of the slaughtering or proce ssing plant in the country of origin.

• Type of shipment.

• Transit of the product through other countries.

• Border post at the point of entry into Argentina.

• Expected use of the product.

Annex IV includes a detailed description of t he procedures required at the port of entry. The products authorized for impor t shall be safe and shall not constitute a possible source of the FMD virus, as stat ed in the O.I.E. recommendations. At the point of entry, the im ported products or animals are subject to a physical inspec-Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 11 tion, verification of correct labelling, and documentation check, even though a complete zoosanitary risk assessment is required prio r to the issuance of the pertinent import permit. In addition, at the Authorized Border Posts with cross-bordertraffic, vehicles, passengers, and luggage are inspected to identify pr oducts that may represent a zoophytosanitary risk. All imported live animals mu st be placed in quarantine. SENASA has a Quarantine Facility in the City of Buenos for this purpose. The required quarantine period and quarantine conditions are in acco rdance with internati onal recommendations. At the end of the quarantine period, the imported animals are placed under observation at the farm of destination for a period of sixty (60) days. Afte r this period, the local SENASA veterinary physician must issue a report certifying that the post-quarantine period has been completed. Ruminant breeding animals and their genet ic material are included in the Epidemiological Surveillance System to avoid entry of bovines affected by Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE). Measures have been adopted to reduce the ri sk and the reintroduction of FMD virus. These measures are principally centered on mitigating the external risk and maintaining adequate internal controls to promptly detect FM D cases. To this end, specific rules and sanitary actions have been put in place that reduces the possibility of the FMD virus entering our country. SENASA Resolution # 32/2000 defines the mi ssion and functions of the QUARANTINE, BORDERS AND CERTIFICATIONS UNIT and SENASA Resolution # 511/2001 assigns responsibility for coordinating and supervising the controls of imported products at the various points of entry.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 12 SENASA Resolutions # 816/20 02 and # 1354/1994 def ine pre-importation procedures and controls, and health certificates requirem ents for animal products and byproducts, and for live animals and their reproduc tive material, respectively. Resolution # 398/1999 states t he requirements to import FMD susceptible animals, and animal products and byproducts, as well as all other risk materi al for FMD.

SENASA Resolution # 99/1999 es tablishes the creation of the Brigade of Beagle dogs to operate at the main airports. The dogs ar e trained to detect org anic products carried by passengers or in luggage. In addition, sc anners to identify any type of organic material were installed at the main Au thorized Border Crossing Points. AFIP (Federal Administration of Govern ment Revenues) Resolution # 636/1999 and SENASA Resolution # 760/99 jointly approve t he Customs Declaration and Affidavit for imported animals, plants, and farm products, which must be completed by all persons entering the country. At the points of entry into the country, pos ters and brochures provide information to create awareness about the produc ts that are banned for entry into Argentina for zoosanitary and phytosanitary reasons. Several agreements with law en forcement authorities (Border Patrol, Coast Guard, and National Aeronautical Police) were signed to have their collaboration in performing the controls at the borders and other points of entry.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 13 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA)

RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 2:

DISEASE STATUS, i.e., IS THE RESTRICT ED DISEASE AGENT KNOWN TO EXIST IN THE REGION? IF YES, AT WHAT PR EVALENCE? IF NO, WHEN WAS THE MOST RECENT DIAGNOSIS?

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 14 2- DISEASE STATUS, i.e., IS THE R ESTRICTED DISEASE AGENT KNOWN TO EXIST IN THE REGION? IF YES, AT WHAT PREVALENCE? IF NO, WHEN WAS THE MOST RECENT DIAGNOSIS?
Patagonia is a region free fr om FMD without vaccination. T he lasts outbreaks in Patagonia were registered in 1976 (Chubut province ), 1971 (Santa Cruz province), and 1967 (Tierra del Fuego province).

IS REPORTING THE PEST OR DISEASE AGENT REQUIRED IN THE REGION? Act # 24,305/93 and pertinent regulations requi re immediate and mandatory reporting of FMD cases in the Republic of Argentina. As stated in the FMD statutes, SENASA has authority to apply severe pena lties when a person or company does not report the disease.

IF THE PEST OR DISEASE AGENT WA S PRESENT AND SUB SEQUENTLY ERADICATED, WHAT METHODS WERE USED FOR ERADICATION? The disease eradication strategy was based on the quick detection of outbreaks and eradication of the infection source by st amping-out policy and depopulation of the affected areas. Systematic vaccination has never been used. Sanitary rifle and burial of all of the suscept ible animals in the affected area premises have been used in the last outbreaks in Tie rra del Fuego and Santa Cruz (years 1967 and 1971 respectively). Restriction in the movement of animals and ring vaccinati on has been used in the last outbreak in the province of C hubut. It was the only case in which sanitary rifle has not been used.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 15 WHAT GEOGRAPHIC AND ENVIRONMEN TAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE EXPORTING REGION MAY INFLUENCE THE PR EVALENCE OF THE PEST OR DISEASE AGENT?

FMD in Argentina has proven to be highly sens itive to the variety and size of the livestock ecosystems in the country. The parameter s of the patterns which were identified with the epidemiologica l studies differ significantly bet ween the various regions of the country. The climate and the environment in Patagonia make sheep to be almost the only livestock and the prevailing livestock activity (Patagonia has almost 60 % of the sheep stock of Argentina). Sheep population in Patagonia is aproximatel y, 9 million sheep and produces more than 72 % of the best wool of the country. Livest ock density is less than 1 animal per hectare. Contact between sheep and bovines exists most ly in Central and Me sopotamia regions, where prevailing livestock is bovine cattle, but this is not the case in Patagonia, where the contact is negligible. Low density of animals and ovine breeding condi tions in Patagonia diminish the possibility for the virus to contaminate the environ ment in a persisting wa y and to produce the infection of other animals by spray or fomite s. Due to the low number of ovine movements there is low pr obability of contact between them and other susceptible species of distant populations or sub-populations. Patagonia is under a very re strictive policy and d ue to this the trade of products that may represent a risk of transmission of FMD virus from other plac es of Argentina orInformation provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 16 from other countries is forb idden. The whole Patagonia te rritory constitutes a region which may be considered as FMD very low risk and this is historically verifiable.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 17 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA)

RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 3:

STATUS OF ADJACENT REGIONS WITH RESPECT TO THE AGENT

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 18 3- STATUS OF ADJACENT REGIONS WITH RESPECT TO THE AGENT.

FOR EACH RELEVANT HAZARD, IS THE PEST OR DISEASE AGENT KNOWN TO EXIST, OR HAS IT EXISTED PREVIOUSL Y, IN ANY REGION ADJACENT TO THE REGION PROPOSING THE TRADE?

IF YES, AT WHAT PREVALENCE?

IF NO, WHEN WAS THE MOST RECENT DIAGNOSIS?

The FMD status of neighboring countries is stated in O.I.E. - HANDISTATUS, November 2002.

Chile: FMD free with no vaccination. Chile stopped vaccinating in June 1980 and was recognized by the O.I.E. as an FMD free country with no vaccination in January 1981. The last outbreak reported to the O.I.E. was in August 1987.

North of Argentine Patagonia, above Parallel 42: The North of Argentine Patagon ia, above Parallel 42 is divides into two zones, North A and B Patagonia, and they r epresent a Buffer zone and a surveillance zone respectively, and they prevent the intr oduction of FMD into Patagonia. North B Patagonia region is the Surveillance Z one required by the OIE as protection to the South zone declared “Free fr om FMD where vaccination is not practiced”. In thisInformation provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 19 region vaccination is not prac ticed, and it is epidemiologica lly equivalent to South Patagonia Region regarding not occurr ence of FMD. The last FM D outbreak took place in 1994, and then sanitary rifle and depopulati on of the affected area was applied. Vaccination is practiced in North A Patagonia region and it is separated from the previous region by the Negro river. All of the accesses have sanitary barriers controlling the entering and transit of products and by-produ cts of animal and vegetal origin. The lasts registries of the disease in the zone ha ppened during the year 2 001, with 7 outbreaks, all of them Type A virus. Sanitary measur es included immobilization of animals of the zone and ring vaccination.

ARE THERE ANY RELEVANT FACTORS ABOUT THE ADJACENT REGIONS THAT SHOULD BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT (E.G., SIZE, DISTANCE FROM ADJACENT BORDER TO AFFECTED HERDS OR ANIMALS)? This region is bounded with FMD free regions without vaccination. Possibilities of introduction of FMD virus to the region through fr ontiers can be considered as negligible.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 20 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA)

RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 4:

EXTENT OF AN ACTIVE DISEASE-CONTRO L PROGRAM, IF ANY, IF THE AGENT IS KNOWN TO EXIST IN THE REGION

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 21 4- EXTENT OF AN ACTIV E DISEASE-CONTROL PROGRAM, IF ANY, IF THE AGENT IS KNOWN TO EXIST IN THE REGION. This point is not answered as the agent is not present in the region.

WHAT IS THE EXTENT OF AN ACTIVE DISEASE-CONTROL PROGRAM, IF ANY, IF THE PEST OR DISEASE AGENT IS KNOWN TO EXIST IN THE REGION OR RECENTLY EXISTED IN THE REGION?

ARE INFECTED OR EXPOSED ANIMALS OR PREMISES QUARANTINED? IF SO, FOR HOW LONG?

ARE AFFECTED PREMISES MONITORED, AND IF SO, HOW?

WHAT TESTS ARE PERFORMED PRIOR TO RELEASING THE QUARANTINE?

IF DEPOPULATION IS USED, HOW ARE CARCASSES DISPOSED OF (ARE THEY SALVAGED AT ABATTOIRS)?

IS INDEMNITY PAID ON DESTROYED ANIMALS? HAVE PREMISES, THOUGH T TO HAVE BEEN CLEA NED UP, LATER BEEN FOUND TO STILL BE AFFECTED?Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 22 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA)

RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 5:

VACCINATION STATUS OF THE REGION. WHEN WAS THE LAST VACCINATION? WHAT IS THE EXTENT OF VACCINATION IF IT IS CURRENTLY USED, AND WHAT VACCINE IS BEING USED?

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 23 5- VACCINATION STATUS OF THE RE GION. WHEN WAS TH E LAST VACCINATION? WHAT IS THE EXTENT OF VACCINATION IF IT IS CURRENTLY USED, AND WHAT VACCINE IS BEING USED?

WHEN WAS THE LAST VACCINATION? In Patagonia, below parallel 42, vaccinati on has never been applied. Surveillance zone (North B Patagonia) is not vaccinated either.

IS THE ADMINISTRATION OF SERUM PERMITTED? IF SO, BY WHOM AND UNDER WHAT CONDITIONS? Administration of serum is not permitted.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 24 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA)

RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 6:

DEGREE TO WHICH THE REGION IS SEPARATED FROM ADJACENT REGIONS OF HIGHER RISK THROUGH PHYSICAL OR OTHER BARRIERS

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 25 6-. DEGREE TO WHICH THE REGION IS SEPARATED FROM ADJACENT REGIONS OF HIGHER RISK THROUG H PHYSICAL OR OTHER BARRIERS
South Patagonia Region is located at the south extrem e of the National Territory and comprises the provinces of Chubut, Santa Cr uz, Tierra del Fuego, Islas del Atlántico Sur and Antártida with a surface of 490.200 ks. 2. (the west region of Isla Grande of Tierra del Fuego is the only insular part included) This region is delimited (SENASA Resoluti on 58/01) by the political borders of the above mentioned provinces, except for the nor th border which is delineated as follows: by parallel 42° from t he Atlantic ocean to the Piltriquitrón mountains (cordilleran zone), following to the north by the mentioned moun tains to the Serrucho mountains (East border), to the Villegas and Manso rivers (N orth border) and the border with Chile (West border). South Patagonia Region is separ ated from the more risky National Territory regions by the North B Patagonia Region , which acts as a Surveillance zone (without vaccination) and it comprises the province of Neuqu én (except for part of the confluent department) and the area of the provin ce of Río Negro to the sout h of the Negro river. This region has the same sanitary restrictions for susceptible animals and risk products entrance as South Patagonia Region. Complementing the mentioned region there can be found North A Patagonia which acts as a buffer zone and comprises the other part of the province of Río Negro and the Patagones Department in the province of Buenos Aires and part of the confluent department of the province of Neuquén. Vaccination is practiced in this region and there are restrictions for the entr ance of animals and risk products from other regions of the country. In all cases prohibitions and restrictions fo r entering to regions are established by SENASA Resolutions N° 58/01 and 1051/ 02, and complementary decrees. To strengthen the surveillance and control me chanisms of all of the documentation regarding transit and movement of marketable livestock and other susceptible and products of animal origin or agricultural which could be carry the FMD virus to the Patagonia region, and complying with the international standards, SENASA has implemented Sanitary Barriers acting as supervisor or delegatin g duties to other official offices, or notInformation provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 26 official entities with whom SENASA has agreem ents of cooperation and delegation of duties. To explain what was previously mentioned, charts are attached which show the number of terrestrial and air points in the sanitary barriers in this regions, diagrams with their location and the number of personnel working.
See diagram N° 1.- SANITARY BARRIERS 1.- TERRESTRIAL POINTS SANITARY BARRIERS Geographi cal location TERRESTRIAL POINTSNORTH A Patagonia Sanitary Region Colorado river 10

NORTH B Patagonia Sanitary Region Neuquén (Barrancas river) Neuquén (Confluencia Dep.) Río Negro (on Negro river and National route 250) 04 16

04

SOUTH Patagonia Sanitary Region Parallel 42 and Piltriquitrón mountains 3

NUMBER OF TERRESTRIAL POINTS 37

2.- AIR POINTS SANITARY REGION AIRPORTS North A Patagonia 3 (Viedma-G. Roca-Neuquén) North B Patagonia 2 (R. Sauces, Bariloche) South Patagonia 9 (Pto. Madryn, Rawson, C. Rivadavia, Trelew, Esquel, Río Gallegos, Calafate, Río Grande and Ushuaia TOTAL AIR POINTS 14Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 27 3.- HUMAN RESOURCES COORDINATION / SANITARY REGIONS Professional Coordinator Barrier Provincial link SENASA Local link SENASA Supporting profession/ Technicians Point Chief Supervisor / auxiliary Administratives

NORTH A PATAGONIA Colorado river barrier 2 1 1 3 72 17

NORTH B PATAGONIA Terrestrial points - Airports 1 2 3 4 82 --

SOUTH PATAGONIA Terrestrial points - airports -- 3 -- 5 42 --

TOTALS 3 6 4 12 196 17 Professionals: 25 Technicians: 196 Administrative auxiliaries: 17Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 28 SOUTH PATAGONIA REGION Detailed description

Land entry and control posts Arroyo Verde Post. It is located on one of the two land paved communication ways to enter the region, which is National Route No 3. Said route is the main comm unication way of Patagonia region Atlantic coast. It is used for most commercial vehicular circulation and transit of passengers, neighbors, tourists or residents. It is the mandatory point of entry for all the provisioning of the region. The cities of Puerto Madryn, Trelew, Rawson and Com odoro Rivadavia can be found by the route side, being the centers of pr ovincial political power an d main tourism and production activities (fishing and oil extraction). These cities conform the core of highest population density with higher purchasing capacity and installed commercial capacity for storage and distribution of inputs and goods in the province.

Río Villegas Post It is located in “Nahuel Huapi” National Park area, on National Route # 258. This route leads to the cord illeran zone of South Pa tagonia Sanitary Region. Similar to National Route #3, Route # 258 is the ma in road used for extra-regional transit, whether commercial, of passengers or tour ists. El Bolsón and Esquel are the mainInformation provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 29 human settlements and constitute one of the links of the tourism chain of Bariloche city and surrounding areas. Its popul ation density, commercial, industrial and tourism characteristics are similar to those described for Arroyo Verde area.

El Maitén Post It is located in the crossing of Nationa l Route No 40 and provincial Route #6. These are old soil access roads that lost their commercial relevance as a result of the construction of National Route No258. These communication ways are used only by area settlers with similar social and cultural characteristics (indigenous settlements).

Characteristics of Patagonia table-land in Parallel 42 influence area. Main factors or variables that contri bute to region sanitary preservation. Population: Two main adjoining Departm ents located on Parallel 42 have a more than scarce stable population. That is: Gastre Department: 1650 inha bitants. Density per squa re Km.: 0,1 inhabitant Telsen Department: 1398 inha bitants. Density per squa re r Km, 0,1 inhabitant Topography Patagonia table-land is formed by arid soil, almost comple tely deprived of vegetation, with thorned and stunted bushes

.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 30 Climate Weather conditions in Patagonia are cold , windy and snowy winters and dry and windy

summers. Economy Table-land is not fit for cropping. Sheep pro duction and wool production are the main agricultural products of the region.

Road infrastructure

It has land and stone roads with no maintenanc e. Many of them turned into paths and depressions difficult to transit except when us ing double-wheel drive. Moreover there is an absolute lack of road signals and helping serv ices (garages, oil, telephones, security, etc.) In unfavorable weather conditions, rain, s now, ice and wind turn the roads dangerous and risky. 

### Population cultural and ec onomic characteristics

. The main population settlements lack of telephones, electric li ght at all times, with a level of income per person below the line of poverty. Sheep are the main meat suppl iers for human consumption, and they have a price of approximately $ 1.5 to 1.7 per Kilo, any cut, when a matura ted bovine meat cut varies from $ 9 to $ 13.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 31 

### Institutional Characteristics

- A significant integration of provincial authorities with regional SENASA officers has taken place, who work in tandem.

- To that purpose, provincial authorities and the National Office of AgriculturalCommercial Control (ONCCA) participate in a plan for fiscal and sanitary regularization of slaughter plants.

- A Sanitary Plan for Scab and Parasitic Inse ct Control is in place. This allows interaction with producers.

- Other plans, such as Wool and Mohai r, strengthen contact and interrelation.

- The provincial Agricultural Social Plan addressed to small producers or livestock holders and the program of assistance to indigenous populations allow awareness on sanitary measures adopted in the region.

- The presence of different regional authorities re lated to agricultural activities, e.g. Magistrate’s Court, Sheriff, Animal Health Committees (COPROSA ́s), gives place to more active participation and to an additional source of information and observation on regional news.



### Short reference regarding borders:

The Cordillera of Los Andes forms a natural border line of about 1.900 km. between South Patagonia region and Chile. Chile and this region of Argentina share the same sanitary status, both recognized by the OIE. There are three SENASA-appr oved border crossings in the region for trade activities with Chile, i.e. Los Huemul es, Cohayque and Integración Austral.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 32 The rest of the region limits with the Atl antic Ocean and approved border crossings are located at ports , the main activity of which is the export of fishing products. The operation of international airports is related, basically, to tourism activities or domestic flights. With regard to these and other internat ional border crossings with Chile, approved for the transit of resi dents from other regions or to urists and control of passengers, luggage and means of transport, SENASA has issued sanitary rules listing the products that may be introduced into the co untry without sanitary risks (SENASA Resolution 295/99) along with the pertinent procedure manual (S ENASA Resolution 299/99). In addition, an Assistance and Cooperation Ag reement has been execut ed with official agencies with offices in border areas, such as the National Border Patrol, the Argentine Coast Guard, the National Aeronautic Police and the General Customs Bureau.



### Location map:
ARGENTINA Map 1 shows different Sanita ry Regions into which Patagonia region is divided (North A Patagonia region, North B Patagonia region and South Patagonia region). Map 2 contains land ba rriers, air posts and border posts.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 33 Map 1

R egi ón P atagonic a N orte “ A” R egi ón P atagonic a N orte “ B” R egi on P atagonic a “S ur”Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 34 Map 2Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 35 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA)

RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 7:

EXTENT TO WHICH MOVEMENT OF ANIMA LS AND ANIMAL PRODUCTS IS CONTROLLED FROM REGIONS OF HIGHER RI SK, AND LEVEL OF BIOSECURITY REGARDING SUCH MOVEMENTS

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 36 7-

. EXTENT TO WHICH MOVEMENT OF ANIMALS AND ANIMAL PRODUCTS IS CONTROLLED FROM REGIONS OF HIGHER RISK, AND LEVEL OF BIOSECURITY REGARDING SUCH MOVEMENTS.

FROM WHAT COUNTRIES OR REGIONS DOES THE REQUESTING REGION IMPORT PRODUCTS THAT COULD POTE NTIALLY CARRY PEST OR DISEASE AGENTS OF CONCERN?

ANIMALS FROM OTHER REGIONS OF THE COUNTRY Import of FMD susceptible animals to Sout h and North B (surveillance) Patagonia regions from other regions of the country is forbidden (R esolution N° 1051/2002, dated 31/12/2002). Import of FMD susc eptible animals to South Pa tagonia region from North B Patagonia region is allowed if they comply with the requi rements stated by the same rules (negative double sero logy and Probang test).

SUSCEPTIBLE ANIMALS FROM OTHER COUNTRIES Import of susceptible animals from FMD Free countries or zones where vaccination is not practiced, recognized by the OFFICE INTERNATIONAL DES EPIZOOTIES (OIE) is authorized. Previous to impor t and Import Authorization, co ntaining the sanitary requirements to be complied with by the fore ign Veterinary Service must be approved. Documentary, physical and identity controls will be carried out at the entrance point to the authorized National Territory, granting, if pertinent, the Internment Permit with the destination previously approved, and a fter the quarantine, if appropriate.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 37 PRODUCTS OF ANIMAL ORIGIN Import of products of animal or igin considered as possible ca rriers of the FMD virus to a free FMD zone and from other regi ons or countries with a lower sanitary status is established by the technical principles of t he Office International des Epizooties. Thus, introduction of products considered as risky is forbidden or subjected to risk mitigation processes. The follow ing are the specific sanita ry standards established by SENASA for these cases:

- SENASA Resolution N° 816/02 st ating the procedures to aut horize the import from third countries of products under this Se rvice jurisdiction (this rule abolished SENASA Resolution N° 630/95).

- SENASA Resolution N° 58/01 and complementar y related rules, establishing prohibitions and restrictions of introduction of products of ani mal origin considered as risky to North A, B Patagonia and South Patagonia sanitary regions.

- SENASA Resolution N° 1051/ 02 authorizing and ruling the import of semen and embryos of FMD susceptible species animals to South and North B Patagonia regions. Every shipping of these merchandises must only be made from Official Establishments under SENASA control, in authorized vehicl es, previously sealed and with the corresponding health certificate stat ing that the products being ca rried comply with the sanitary requirements for their mark eting in the Patagonia Region. At the barrier, each vehicle is subjected to documentary, physical and identity controls, authorizing, if pertinent, its entrance after regi stering its passing, s ealing the vehicle for a second time and leaving constancy of the in tervention in the sanitary documentation.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 38 The market for imported live animals susceptible to FMD in Argentina is currently limited due to health status requirements and the po ssibility of accessing better genetics with imported semen and embryo s, among other reasons. Import procedures and requirements establis hed by SENASA are in line with O.I.E. recommendations. Argentina requires a risk analysis for all import s of live animals to determine the epidemiological status of the country or region of origin, the exis tence of national or regional campaigns for the disease, the specific capabi lities of the laboratories or quarantine facilities and their staff, and other factors that minimize the risk of importing exotic or high risk diseases into the country. For animal products, Argentina requires risk assessment and risk mitigation to minimize potential risks associated with the importation of some products. The Table included in Annex V lists the countries that expor t products that could potentially carry the FMD virus.

TO WHAT EXTENT IS THE MOVEMEN T OF SUCH PRODUCTS CONTROLLED FROM REGIONS OF HIGHER RISK, AND W HAT IS THE LEVEL OF BIOSECURITY REGARDING SUCH MOVEMENTS? All products and live animals that require appr oval from SENASA must meet similar security requirements. Import requirements may be summarized as shown below: a) Pre-importation authorization. b) Verification of the health certificate issued by the country of origin.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 39 c) Physical inspection, docum ent control, and verification of the identity of the imported products. d) A Restricted Transit Permit for shipment s of animal products to processing plants with official SENASA veterinary inspection. Live animals must be placed in quarantine at the Official Quarantine Facility. e) After inspection, the imported products are sampled for the pur pose of the CREHA 1 program and the document authoriz ing the release of the products is issued. In the case of live animals, said document is iss ued at the end of the quarantine period, if no pathology is found. With this document, the importer may collect the imported goods. The Customs Office, the Aeronaut ical Police, Border Patrol and the Coast Guard work with SENASA in performing the controls. In addition, international luggage check procedur es are in place to identify and confiscate products that could represent a zoosanita ry or phytosanitary risk for the country. SENASA has a Procedures Manual for Authorized Border Posts that describes the actions required at the border posts. The manual includes: - The Legal Framework

- The National and Internati onal Zoosanitary Status

- A Glossary

- The list of officials are authorized to sign t he International Certificates and a List of Authorized Border Control Posts throughout the country.

- An epidemiological descrip tion of the Border Posts

. (being implemented ) - Importation Procedures

1 National Residue Control in Food Products and Hygiene ProgramInformation provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 40 - Exportation Procedures

WHAT TEST PROCEDURES ARE USED? The diagnostic tests used by SENASA ar e those recommended by the O.I.E. for each agent.

ARE IMPORT PERMITS AND HEALTH CERTIFICATES REQUIRED? Yes, import permits are required before t he imported goods arrive in the country. The Import Permits are approved by the com petent areas at the Central SENASA Office. The procedures to assess the risk, approv e processing plants and processes in the country of origin, etc. are stated in Resolution No 816/ 02. Other SENASA requirements for imported animals include a h ealth certificate signed by the Animal Health Service in the exporting country. Examples of these certificates are attached as Annex VI.

WHAT OTHER PROCEDURES ARE USED? Other procedures require an approval of t he exporting countries based on a technical audit in the exporting countries. The audit also includes abattoirs and food processing plants in the exporting countries, as required in Resolution No 816/02. ARE IMPORTED ANIMALS QUARANTINED? IF YES, FOR HOW LONG AND WHERE?Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 41 Imported animals are placed in SENASA's Quarantine facility "Lazareto Capital" . The animals that require special conditions or treatment are pl aced in special quarantine facilities (e.g. zoo animals, ornamental birds or fish). The duration of the quarantine per iod varies to allow suffici ent time to complete the various tests required, and according to t he species and its origin. The quarantine period is between 15 and 60 days. See Annex VII. Annexes referring to Border Controls in Argentina: Annex VII A: Control Posts authorized by SENASA Annex VII B : Quantity of products condemned at bor der posts under SENASA control. Annex VII C : Quantity of products condemned at border posts authorized by SENASA (Border Patrol Authority and Coast Guard). Annex VII D : Inspection of animal shipments (September 2001 to September 2002). Annex VII E : Legal Framework. - SENASA Resolution No 1505/20 00 – States the actions that must be carried out in response to a sanitary warning. - SENASA Resolution No 32/2001 – Establishes the QUARANTINE, BORDERS AND CERTIFICATIONS UNIT (CCFyC) - SENASA Resolution No 501/2001 – Approves the Border Post Procedures Manual. - SENASA Resolution No 511/01 -– Appoints o fficials to the border control posts authorized by SENASA - SENASA Resolution No 462/01 and 538/02 – Describes the procedures for residue disposal and waste management at the border posts. - SENASA Resolution No 819/02 – Lists the border posts authorized by SENASA.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 42 - Guidelines to Inspect Animal Shipments.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 43 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA)

RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 8:

LIVESTOCK DEMOGRAPHICS AND MARKETING PRACTICES IN THE REGION

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 44 8-

. LIVESTOCK DEMOGRAPHICS AND MARKETING PRACTICES IN THE REGION

HOW MANY HERDS, FLOCKS, ETC., OF EA CH RELEVANT SPEC IES ARE IN THE REGION? Table 2 : Number of livestock and Establishment s in Patagonia Argentina below parallel 42 (year 2002), per province 

### PROVINCE ESTABLISHMENTS BOVINES OVINES Chubut 8836 136,559 4,022,771 Santa Cruz 1686 46,798 2,333,526 Tierra del Fuego 52 23,525 515,171 Total of the Region 10574 206,882 6,871,468Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 45 HOW ARE THEY DISTRIBUTED (E.G., HERD DENSITY, ETC.)? Due to the arid characteristi cs of the region, one of the only possible livestock activity is the extensive sheep breeding fo r wool production. Prevaili ng breeds are Merino and Corriedale. Production systems are characteriz ed by developing in large farms with important flock of sheep, but with a very low density per animal. Average livestock density in the region is 14 sheep per km 2 , being Santa Cruz the province with the lower value (9.5 animals per km 2 ). Bovine production is secondar y, with approximat ely 175,000 animals in the whole region

WHERE ARE THE MAJOR LIVESTO CK MARKETING CENTERS? There are no fairs or livestock concentration markets in South Patagonia region. There are annual exhibitions-fairs for selling of ovine breeders in Santa Cruz (Río Gallegos) and Chubut (Comodoro Rivadavia, Trelew and Esquel). Each of them auctions approximately 400 rams. Moreover, large farms carry out their annual breeders auctions in their own premises. There are no livestock concentration markets for fattening and slaughter. Trade is carry out directly from the estab lishment to the slaughterhouse.

WHAT ARE THE PATTERNS OF LIVEST OCK MOVEMENT WITHIN THE REGION? Movements of animals within the region ar e limited. Due to t he production systems which characterize the patagonic establishments movement of animals is limited to buying of male breeders once a ye ar and direct selling of disca rd animals and lambs to coldstore plants (the la st ones for export).Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 46 HOW ARE THE ANIMALS TRANSPORTED AND HANDLED DURING MARKET TRANSACTIONS? Animals are transported on special vehicles serving only for this purpose. The vehicles must comply with SENASA Resolution # 97/99 wh ich requires approval of the vehicle by SENASA, and SENASA Resolution # 809/82 whic h states hygiene and sanitation requirements. Commercialization of animals is carried out, in general, directly from the establishment to the coldstore plant or to other establishments. As it was previously mentioned there are no livestock concentrations (fair auctions). Buying of breeders is carried out in fairs or in other farms, directly. To market or move animals, the farmers must be registered and have a RENSPA number (National Register of Farmers as defi ned in Resolution # 41 7/97 of the former Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisher ies and Foodstuffs - se e copy of the RENSPA in Annex VIII -). Shipment of animals to any destination requires a DTA (Animal Transit Document) (SENASA Resolution # 848/98), and a Provincial Transit Certificate (Guía) that is issued by provincial authorities. A copy of the DTA is attached in Annex IX. The Local SENASA Offices keep a record of the movements of susceptible animals and report this information on a monthly basis to the statistics unit of DNSA (Monthly Statistics - I.E.M.), and to the Technical Managem ent Unit (S.G.S.). and the QUARANTINE, BORDERS AND CERTIFICATIONS UNIT (CCFyC) To better control animal shipments and guarant ee an adequate follow-up of the animals, Resolution # 178/01 requires mandatory indi vidual branding of the animals, correct identification of the transporta tion vehicles, and establishes joint liability for the OfficialInformation provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region, as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

Risk Analysis Unit 47 staff that issues the health certificate, the owners or per sons responsible for the animals, the shippers and the slaughtering plants.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 48 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA) RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 9:

TYPE AND EXTENT OF DISEASE SURVEILL ANCE IN THE REGION, E.G., IS IT PASSIVE AND/OR ACTIVE, AND WHAT IS THE QUANTITY AND QUALITY OF SAMPLING AND TESTING

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 49 9- TYPE AND EXTENT OF DISEASE SURV EILLANCE IN THE REGION, E.G. IS IT PASSIVE AND/OR ACTIVE, AND WHAT IS THE QUANTITY AND QUALITY OF SAMPLING AND TESTING The epidemio-surveillance system in Argentina is ap plied at three levels: central, regional and local. 1) CENTRAL LEVEL The central level includes t he National Animal Health Office (DNSA), the Epidemiology Office and the National FMD Eradication Co mmittee (CONALFA). The central level analyzes the information, defines strategies and general actions, and issues reports. Most of the information is provided by othe r areas of SENASA, government agencies and international organizations. SENASA iss ues two reports: a national report and an international report with the information su bmitted to SENASA's International and Institutional Affairs Office. The inte rnational report is distribut ed to other countries and international bodies such as PAHO/WHO and the O.I.E.

2) REGIONAL LEVEL : The regional level includes SENASA's Regional Supervisors and the Provincial Animal Health Committees (COPROSAS). This level functions as liaison between the central level and the local offices. It also m anages and assesses healt h documentation, and supports the Local Animal Health Offices with human and economic resources. The regional level is also responsible for managing and harmonizing the national strategies.

3) LOCAL LEVEL:Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 50 The local level is the operational level and pr imary source of data (animal health protocols, reports suspect cases, remits samples to the laboratory, etc.). This level includes the local SENASA offices and the animal health NGOs. Active and passive surveillance systems are in place. Passive Surveillance: Notification and recording of outbreaks and suspect cases of vesicular diseases: Section 9 of Act # 24,305 states that FMD must be reported immediately by individuals and/or companies that know about, or suspec t the presence of the disease. Sections 46, 47, 48, 49 and 50 of Regulatory Decree # 643/96 of the FMD Act require mandatory reporting and describe the reporti ng process. After a case is reported to the Local SENASA Office and the official ve terinarian visits the farm, said official prepares the protocol (Resolution # 383/2001), and faxes it to the Epidemiology Office within 24 hours. The Analysis and Outbreak Re cording Unit of the Epidem iology Office analyses and classifies the health reports into one of the follo wing categories: outbreak, suspect case of vesicular disease, or notificat ion of an FMD compatible disease. SENASA's Central Labor atory receives and tests the samples remitted by the Local SENASA Offices. The test result s are sent by fax to the Epidemiology Office and the Local SENASA Office that sent the samples. The test results are also sent by e-mail to the Regional Supervisors.

LABORATORY TESTING OF SUSPICIOU S ANIMALS. IF YES, WHAT PROCEDURES AND TO WHAT EXTENT (E.G., WHAT PR OPORTION OF SUSPICIOUSInformation provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 51 CASES ARE EVALUATED USING EACH OF THE SPECIFIC LABORATORY PROCEDURES)? When the Veterinary Physician ofthe Local SENASA Office receives a report of a suspect case and his diagnosis does not confirm the absence of the FMD virus, the veterinarian collects samples for virus identification purposes. If the Official Veterinarian c onsiders that the quantity or q uality of the samples do not meet the minimum standards, blood or esophage al-pharyngeal fluid samples from approximately 16 animals of the herd are required; the animals must be identified and bled again after twenty or thirty days. Epithelium and esophageal-pharyngeal fluid sample s are tested by ELISA for virus typing. Blood samples are tested by 3 ABC ELISA to identify non-structural antibodies for the FMD virus and the test resu lts are confirmed with EITB.

ARE QUARANTINES IMPOSED ON PREM ISES WITH SUSPICIOUS CASES, PENDING FINAL DIAGNOSIS? Yes, premises are quarantined until the final diagnosis is issued.

ARE SERUM SURVEYS CONDUCTED, AND IF SO, HOW FREQUENTLY, WHAT SAMPLE SIZES ARE USED, AND WHAT HAS BEEN FOUND?Yes, active epidemio-surveillance actions include serum surveys to identify and measure viral activity. Serology is a tool used regularly that provides a legitimate measure and interpretation of the progress of the Na tional Program. The design of the survey (e.g. sample size, regions and subregions into which the country is divided, etc.), isInformation provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 52 based on the epidemiological status at the ti me the survey is conducted and the goals that were set. Samplings are performed in areas where FMD outbreaks have never occurred and where vaccination has never been applied (Northern Pat agonia B and Southern Patagonia). Southern Patagonia is the region located to the South of latitude 42 and has been recognized by the O.I.E. as an FM D free area with no vaccination. Seroepidemiological Surveillance in 2001: A serological survey comprising the Patagon ia Regions was con ducted in 2001 to determine the presence of the FMD virus. The su rvey included two st udies: one targeted the animal population and the other, the operations tha t, until 2000, received susceptible animals from the northern part of the country at the ti me the country was recognized as FMD free with no vaccination. Sampling of the population wa s conducted in two stages. The prevalence for infected herds was estimated at 1% and for infected animals in the herds, at 15%, with a 99% confidence level. Both bovines and sheep we re sampled as the area is FMD free and the animals are not vaccinated. 507 operat ions and 11,136 animals were sampled. Targeted sampling included oper ations that received susceptible animals between June 2000 and June 2001. The prevalence estimated for each one of these operations was 5% with a 95% confidence le vel (Cannon and Roe, 1982). The sampling included 70 operations and 3302 animals. Seven of the operations had at least one reactor and 11 animals that tested positive. Complementary studies conf irmed the absence of the FMD virus.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 53 Epidemio-Surveillance in 2002: Within the framework of the annual Nation al FMD Surveillance System, a serum sampling was conducted in 2002 in the Southern and Northern Patagonia B regions where the animals are not vaccinated for FMD. DESIGN FOR THE SOUTHERN AND NO RTHERN PATAGONIA B REGIONS GOAL

 To rule out the presence of antibodies against non-structural proteins (NSP) of the FMD virus (FMDV) in cattle as s heep, as an indicator of infection.

 The animals in the Regions are not vaccinated.

 Absence of clinical cases (FMD free area with no vaccinati on and Surveillance Area with no vaccination).

 Includes the Southern and Northern Pat agonia B Regions, identified in the annual sampling as Region C. Ea ch region was subdivided into 5 subregions (C1 to C5). See Map 1

. Species Sampled: bovines (subregions C1 and C2) and sheep (C1, C2, C3, C4 and C5).Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 54 Map 1Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 55 Number of samples co llected per operation: Region C:

 28 bovines, 6 - 24 months of age

 28 sheep / goats ASSUMPTIONS Sampling was conducted in two stages: Estimated prevalence of infected operations: 2%. Estimated prevalence of infected animals on the operations: 10%. Confidence level: 95%.

DIAGNOSTIC TECHNIQUES For bovine serum samples: 3 ABC ELISA ( screening) and EITB (for confirmation). For ovine serum samples: VIAA / AGID tests. Criteria to read test results:

- Positive test result of a bovine samp le: a sample that tests positive by 3 ABC ELISA and EITB.

- Positive test result of an ovine/caprine sample: a sample that tests positive by VIAA.

- Positive operation: An operation where at least one bovine, or ovine / caprine sample tested positive.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 56 NUMBER OF SAMPLES TESTED Table : Total number of samples tested in the Region.
AREA BOVINES SHEEP / GOATS TOTAL C 5,292 17,990 23,282

RESULTS Table: Test results for bovines AGE GROUP 6 TO 12 MONTHS 1 TO 2 YEARS SPECIES AREA % PREVALENCE C.I. % PREVALENCE C.I. BOVINE C 0.16 0.02 - 0.30 0.34 0.00-0.78

Table: Test results for sheep / goats SPECIES AREA % PREVALENCE C.I. OVINE / CAPRINE C 0.00 -

Of the 709 operations sampled in both regions, only 9 tested positive (1.3%) with a 95% confidence interval between 0.5 and 2.15.

CONCLUSIONS

- The samples that were collected and te sted served to estimate the parameters with a high degree of precision.

- The absence of viral activity in free areas was confirmed.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 57 SAMPLING IN 2003 Within the framework of the annual sampling for the Nationa l FMD Surveillance System, a serological sampling of cattle and sheep wa s conducted in the S outhern and Northern Patagonia B Regions in 2003.

GOAL To rule out the presence of infection caused by the FMD virus (FMDV) in cattle and sheep.

ASSUMPTIONS (Southern and Northern Patagonia B Regions) The sampling was conducted in two stages: Estimated prevalence on infected farms: 1% Estimated prevalence of infected animals on the farms: 10% Confidence level: 95% OPERATIONS TO BE SAMPLED The design requires sampling of 459 operations in these regions. ANIMALS TO BE SAMPLED Ten sheep of any category and age must be sampled on each operation. In the entire region, the total number of ani mals to be sampled is 4590. TESTS Samples collected from the animals included in the study in these regions (sheep) must be tested with liquid phase ELISA fo r virus types O1 Campo and A 2001. PROGRESS OF THE SAMPLING At present, the samples are bei ng collected in the field.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 58 IS REPORTING OF SICK ANIMALS MANDAT ORY, AND IF SO, WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE (BY WHOM AND TO WHOM) AND WHAT PENALTIES ARE INVOLVED FOR FAILURE TO REPORT? Act # 24,305 requires immediate and mandatory reporting of Foot an d Mouth Disease in Argentina. As stated in the FMD rules, SENASA has authorit y to apply severe penalties to any individual or company that fails to report an FMD case. Awareness among farm owners was clearly dem onstrated in March 2001 when over 300 cases or suspect FMD cases were reported. As stated in the Animal Health Law Enforcem ent Act (# 3959) all vete rinarians in private practice that work in rural areas (5,752) mu st report epizootic diseases. In addition, as these professionals sit on the board of the te chnical subcommittees of the Regional and Local Animal Health Committees they are highly motivated and support the national eradication programs. Private diagnostic laboratories must al so immediately report epizootic diseases. Failure to comply with stat utory requirements is subject to severe penalties. On the farms, the owner or person in charge sees the anim als every day. As a result, they are well aware of FMD symptoms, report ing requirements, and available resources to avoid the disease. Twice a year, the staff of t he Local Animal Health Offices visits the farms to assist the farmers with the vaccinati on of cattle. At the time, they physically inspect the animals, collect data on the anim al population, provi de information about preventive measures, and generat e awareness about the plan, contributing to the efficiency of the surveillance system.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 59 The INTA (National Farming Technology Instit ute) has a network of Experimental and Extension facilities in rural areas that wo rks with the farmers and receives updated information on the health conditions of the herds.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 60 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA)

RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 10:

DIAGNOSTIC LABO RATORY CAPABILITIES

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 61 10- DIAGNOSTIC L ABORATORY CAPABILITIES

WHAT DIAGNOSTIC LABORATO RY CAPABILITIES ARE THERE? In Argentina, SENASA has one di agnostic laboratory with biosaf ety level NBS3 Ag that was approved in 1997. The laboratory is aut horized to manipulate FMDV and other microorganisms risk 3 or lower, and meets SEN ASA and O.I.E. biosafety requirements. It is located at 1653 Fleming Av ., Martínez, Buenos Aires. In 2001, the FMD Unit of t he Laboratories and Te chnical Control Office (DILACOT) focused on the sanitary emergency which result ed by the re-importation of the disease in 2000. For the sanitary emergency, t he Central Laboratory focused on:

• Diagnosis.

• Vaccine control.

• Serum sampling. Diagnosis: Diagnostic work included testi ng of all epithelium sample s collected from FMD outbreaks and suspect cases of vesicular di seases (there have never been any outbreaks in the Patagonic region), typing and identification of actuating st rains which, in that year were two different type A FMDV strains whic h, after identification, were named A Argentina 2000 and A Argentina 2001. Vaccine Control : Immunity testing to identify the most appropriate oil-base FMD vaccine for the existing emergency conditions. The findings indicat ed that the vaccine should contain O1 Campo, A 24 Cruzeiro, A ARGENTINA 2000 and A ARGENTINA 2001.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 62 The Central Laboratory also audited and inspected the critic al production points at the vaccine manufacturer's facilities, and tested a ll the series of vaccines used during the year, as required in Resolution # 195/01. Ninety-three series with a total production of 11,639.277.593 - 2 ml doses of the vaccine were tested. DILACOT also tested an additi onal 15 series (16,406,120 doses ) that were exported to other countries. Serum Sampling: Serum samples of different susceptible spec ies were tested, as required by the 2001 serum survey designed by the Epidemiology Offi ce to determine the level of viral activity and immunity in different regions of the country. To determine viral activity, non-structural prot ein antibodies of the FM DV were tested in 8810 bovine samples with 3 ABC EL ISA and EITB. The protecti on level in bovines on premises with no viral activity was meas ured in 6215 samples from 494 operations. Ovine serum samples (6140 samples) were te sted with VIAA to measure viral activity. In the 2002 serum survey 42,000 bovine sa mples and 27,000 ovine samples were tested Audits: In 2000, the laboratory was audited by foreign inspectors from the European Union and the Pan American FMD Center - PAHO, am ong others. The scope of the audits included working procedures, quality programs, and biosafet y conditions. The findings were satisfactory.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 63 ARE THERE LABORATORIES APPROVED FOR AGENT ISOLATION, IDENTIFICATION, AND TYPING? (IF YES, INDICAT E THE NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF EACH). All tissue, organ, eso phageal-pharyngeal fluid, and other samples of suspect cases of vesicular diseases must be remitted to SE NASA's Central Laboratory (Operational Procedures and Working Instructions Manual - Virology Unit - SENASA 2001. Former SENASA Resolution # 219/95 - Annex X).

WHAT SECURITY MEASURES ARE IN PL ACE IN LABORATORIES WITHIN THE REGION TO PREVENT ESCAPE OF BIOLOGICAL AGENTS? SENASA's laboratory with NBS3 Ag biosafety level includes:

• Restricted and controlled access;

• Airtight compartments and mandatory showering;

• Negative air flow with two HEPA filters;

• Heat treatment of liquid effluents (100°C during 1 hour);

• Border autoclave;

• Airlock with formaldehyde spraying;

• Category II biosafety booths;

• Electric energy generator.

The Argentine biosafety requirements to mani pulate the FMD virus are stated in former SENASA Resolution # 219/95.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 64 WHAT KIND OF TRAINING HAVE THE DIAGNOSTIC PERSONNEL HAD REGARDING THE SPECIFIC DISEASE AGENTS OF CONCERN? The staff of SENASA's Central Laboratory is trained in manipulating and diagnosing the FMD virus. The 5 veterinarians and 8 labora tory technicians of the FMD Unit have a high level of expertise in diagnosing vesicu lar diseases and testing FMD vaccines. The Virology Advisory Committee was estab lished in 1992. Its me mbers include professionals from the INTA (National Farming Tec hnology Institute) and the Animal Virology Center (CEVAN) of the Nati onal Council for Technical and Scientific Research (CONICET). The Virology Advisory Committee, that continuously provides support to SENASA, has the best technical and human resources in the country.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 65 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH AND AGRIFOOD QUALITY SERVICE (SENASA)

RISK ANALYSIS UNIT 

# QUESTION 11:

POLICIES AND INFRASTRUCT URE FOR ANIMAL DISEASE CONTROL IN THE REGION, i.e., EMERGENCY RESPONSE CAPACITY

July 2003Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 66 11- POLICIES AND INFRAS TRUCTURE FOR ANIMAL DISE ASE CONTROL IN THE REGION, i.e., EMERGENCY RESPONSE CAPACITY

WHAT POLICIES AND INFR ASTRUCTURE EXIST FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE TO OUTBREAK SITUATIONS? The outbreaks which occurred as of Octo ber 2001 were managed in accordance with an eradication strategy t hat required stamping out 2 , among other measures, to preserve the health status of the FMD free areas. All the measures included in the strategy comply with the recommendations stated in the FMD Chapter of the In ternational Animal Health Code of the O.I.E. By Decree # 394/2001 that updated Decree # 1585/1996, the Presi dent of SENASA has authority to take prompt actions to respond to emergency situati ons involving animal health. SENASA has special policies, logi stics and a budget for zoosanitary and phytosanitary emergency situations. The National Animal Health Emergency System (SINAESA) defines the responsibilities and functions to control FMD in emergency si tuations. The SINAESA operates at three levels: Central, Regional and Local. At the central level, there is a Central An imal Health Emergency Committee that is responsible for describing the emergency scenario, defining the control measures, financing mechanisms and responsibilities, and assi gning the human and other resources required for the eradication operations.

2 Stamping-out is required in risk situations such as : clinical cases of FMD, importation of animals or products from infected areas or areas presumed to be infected, inadequate coverage of the vaccine.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 67 At the regional level, the actions requir ed by SINAESA are carried out by SENASA's regional resources. The Region al Animal Health Emergency Team, that is coordinated by the Epidemiology Office of DNSA at SENASA headquarters (DNSA Collective # 30/20), constitutes the functional unit of the system. The team includes SENASA professionals, technicians and admi nistrative staff specialized in responding to emergency situations. The members of t he team were especially select ed for their technical and psychophysical profile because, in cases of emergency, they must be continuously available and able to respond immediately. An alternate person was appointed for each member of this team in the event one me mber is unable to respond. Each Regional Animal Health Emergency Team operates within the jurisd iction of the corresponding SENASA Regional Supervisor al though, in the event of an emergency, one team may provide collaboration to others. In all cases, the staff of the Local SENASA Office in the affected area collaborates with the group of Field Technicians to provide support.

The Local SENASA Office is required to : 1. Provide a primary response to suspect ca ses (collection and remittance of samples, description of the operati on, and implementation of preliminary measures). 2. Notify the Regi onal Supervisor. 3. Submit a status repor t to the Local Animal H ealth Emergency Committee. 4. Carry out the actions defi ned by the chief of operations. In addition, the Local SENASA Office must: a. Supply updated maps of their ar ea, including cadastre drawings.Information provided by SENASA for recognition of Argentina ́s Patagonia as a region as defined in Section 92.2, Title 9, of the Code of Federa l Regulations for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

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__________________________________________________________________________________________ Risk Analysis Unit 68 b. Keep updated records on th e characteristics of the pr oduction system in their area, including a geographic description. c. Keep updated information on local suppliers and service suppliers such as: mobile telephone companies, equipment suppliers, trans portation and rental companies of said equipment, trucks, etc. d. Keep updated information on the livestock population, inv entory of other products, shippers of animal products and byproducts, cattle dealers, ot her professionals related to the farming sector (veter inarians, agronomists, cattle buyers, dairy farm inspectors, etc.) e. Keep updated records of t he local authorities such as : Municipal, Law Enforcement Authorities, Fire brigade, veterinarians in private practice, and others in the area). f. Oversee the surveillance and repopu lation of farming operations.

Regulatory Framework for Emerge ncy Animal Health Situations : In the event of an outbreak of an exotic or endemic diseas e that represents a hazard for the health of the national livestock herd, and if the Official Service determines a stamping-out policy, SENASA' s actions and level of involvem ent are defined in Resolutions # 1410/2000 and 488/2002. These actions are listed in Resolution # 779/1999 by which the National Animal Health Emergency System, as author ized by Act # 24,305 enacted in 1993, Decrees # 1585 ( 1996) and #643 (1996), and the Animal Health Law Enforcement Act (#3959) enacted in 1902, was created.