05/03/2012
It might sound impossible, but scientists are injecting midges with the Schmallenberg virus to study how it's spread. And, the rocketing price of eggs for food manufacturing.
In a bid to understand more about the newly identified livestock disease, Schmallenberg Virus, scientists are infecting midges by injection. Professor Peter Mertens, from the Institute for Animal Health, explains why knowing more about the midge's role will help control the disease, which causes fatalities and deformities in lambs and calves. Out on the farm, we hear from a cattle vet about what it's like to discover Schmallenberg in a herd, and why she thinks the disease may be under reported. And, why the battery cage ban is sending costs rocketing for food manufacturers.
Presenter: Anna Hill
Producer: Sarah Swadling.
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- Mon 5 Mar 201205:45BBC Radio 4
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