Hohenheimer konsensusgespräch "BSE"

Purpose: The Consensus talks at the University of Hohenheim aimed at reviewing the plethora of controversial views and discussions on the subject of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). Existing knowledge was to be summarised and lack of knowledge pinpointed. Procedure: Experts from several relevant disciplines were confronted with, and discussed, many questions on the aspects of the subject. Venue: University of Hohenheim at Stuttgart. Action: The experts met and discussed and arrived at a consensus of opinion. Conclusion: BSE is a disease caused by prions which is likely to be transmitted to humans. The disease has so far only occurred and been confirmed in mammals. Vaccinations are still in a trial stage. Prions are transmitted via brain material and blood. Other modes of transfer are practically excluded. Theoretically it may also be possible that the disease is transmitted by drugs. A specifically established Institute for Consumer Protection has been created in Germany for executing controls that aim at reducing existing risk.