Last week the disease was discovered in cattle herds in the
Corrientes province, located 25 miles from the Paraguayan
border. Over 70 head of cattle were found to be contaminated
and herds were destroyed immediately, based on orders by
government authorities.
Following the discovery of the outbreak, in Israel the head
of veterinary services at the Agricultural Ministry's meat
import department issued orders not to import any meat
bearing a shechitoh date later than 17 Shevat until
further notice.
Chief Rabbinate sources say 12 shechitoh teams are
currently working in Argentina for the Chief Rabbinate and
other kashrus organizations.
Dealers say the development will affect the supply of meat
for Pesach. The Agricultural Ministry is assessing
alternatives for frozen meat imports to prevent a rise in
prices.
Israel imports 56,000 tons of frozen meat annually, including
51,000 tons from South America.
