China has implemented a ban on the direct and indirect import of ruminants and their related products from Iraq, Belgium, and the Netherlands. This decision was prompted by the outbreak of bluetongue disease, as reported by the General Administration of Customs.
Reasons for the Ban:
The ban on imports from Iraq is a result of the bluetongue disease outbreak in sheep, which was officially reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health. Bluetongue disease is known for causing fever and mouth ulcers, and in severe cases, it can turn an animal’s tongue blue. Due to the potential dangers posed by this disease to sheep and cows, China has taken preventive measures to restrict the import of affected livestock and products.
Previous Bans on Belgium and the Netherlands:
China had already prohibited the import of ruminants and related items from Belgium and the Netherlands earlier. This ban was imposed following an outbreak of the bluetongue virus in these countries.
Announcement Date:
The official announcement from Chinese customs regarding the ban on imports from Iraq was dated Jan. 26.
Multiple-Choice Questions:
- What prompted China to ban the import of ruminants and related products from Iraq?
a. Foot-and-mouth disease outbreak
b. Bluetongue disease outbreak in sheep
c. Avian influenza outbreak
d. Bovine spongiform encephalopathy outbreak
Answer: b. Bluetongue disease outbreak in sheep - Which organization received the official report about the bluetongue disease outbreak in Iraq?
a. United Nations
b. World Health Organization
c. World Organisation for Animal Health
d. Food and Agriculture Organization
Answer: c. World Organisation for Animal Health - What is the reason behind the ban on imports from Belgium and the Netherlands?
a. Foot-and-mouth disease
b. Avian influenza
c. Bluetongue virus outbreak
d. Bovine tuberculosis
Answer: c. Bluetongue virus outbreak - When was the official announcement from Chinese customs regarding the ban on imports from Iraq dated?
a. Jan. 25
b. Jan. 26
c. Jan. 27
d. Jan. 28
Answer: b. Jan. 26