Animal disease
Animal disease has affected us nationally and locally in recent years. Some animal diseases may pass to humans, as happened with the 2009 swine flu pandemic. This outbreak caused thousands of deaths worldwide and disrupted life in the UK. Other diseases may only pass from animal to animal. This includes the 2001 outbreak of foot and mouth disease. This resulted in the deaths of sheep and cattle across the UK and affected the economy.
Animal disease poses a risk to animal health (including pets) and human health. North Tyneside is home to an award-winning coastline as well as many rural communities. It is important for residents to be aware of this risk.