Introductory text

Commission Decision

of 26 May 2003

approving an African swine fever diagnostic manual

(notified under document number C(2003) 1696)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2003/422/EC)

(1)

It is necessary pursuant to Directive 2002/60/EC to lay down uniform diagnostic procedures, sampling methods and criteria for the evaluation of the results of laboratory tests for the confirmation of African swine fever.

(2)

In accordance with that Directive, the Community Reference Laboratory for African swine fever is to coordinate, in consultation with the Commission, the methods employed in the Member States for diagnosing the disease, by organising, inter alia, periodic comparative tests and the supplying of standard reagents at Community level.

(3)

African swine fever virus is not considered to be a hazard for human health.

(4)

Laboratory tests have been developed to ensure rapid confirmation of African swine fever.

(5)

The experience gained in the control of African swine fever in recent years has resulted in the identification of the most suitable sampling procedures and criteria for evaluation of laboratory test results for a proper diagnosis of this disease in different situations.

(6)

It is therefore appropriate to approve the manual laying down those procedures and criteria.

(7)

The national diagnostic laboratories should be authorised to modify the approved laboratory tests or use different tests, provided that equal sensitivity and specificity can be demonstrated.

(8)

The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health,