Import risk analysis: Llamas (Lama glama) and alpacas (Vicugna ...

No information could be found about the occurrence of the disease or the presence of
antibodies in camelids. However, antibodies have frequently been found in camels.
Wernery and Kaaden (2002) reviewed 26 articles in which the prevalence of antibodies
varied from 0 to 26 % (Wernery & Kaaden 2002). In another survey the seroprevalence of
antibodies in camels in Chad was 80 % (Schelling et al 2003). Therefore, it is assumed that
camelids could be subclinically infected, and potential carriers of C. burnetii.
24.1.5. Hazard identification conclusion
C. burnetii is an exotic, notifiable and zoonotic organism and camelids are potential
chronic carriers. Therefore, it is considered to be a potential hazard in the commodity.
24.2. RISK ASSESSMENT
24.2.1. Entry assessment
Since camelids are potential carriers of C. burnetii and the organism is globally distributed,
the likelihood of entry is assessed to be non-negligible.
24.2.2. Exposure assessment
High seroprevalences of antibodies in camels indicates that they are susceptible to
infection and that the organism is readily transmitted amongst them. It is reasonable to
assume that C. burnetti could similarly be transmitted from camelids to other susceptible
animals, including humans. Therefore, the likelihood of exposure of New Zealand animals
and people is assessed to be non-negligible.
24.2.3. Consequence assessment
Since the organism rarely causes clinical disease in animals, establishment of C. burnetii
would have minimal economic consequences for animal industries. However, the organism
has zoonotic potential and rare sporadic cases of serious disease could occur in humans.
Therefore, the consequences of introduction are assessed as non-negligible.
24.2.4. Risk estimation
Since entry, exposure and consequence assessments are all non-negligible, the risk is
assessed as non-negligible and C. burnetii is classified as a hazard in the commodity.
Therefore, risk management measures may be justified.
24.3. RISK MANAGEMENT
24.3.1. Options
The following points were considered when drafting measures for the effective
management of C. burnetii in the commodity:
� Long term carriers of C. burnetii occur. Quarantine alone is therefore not a suitable
measure for preventing entry of the organism.
86 ● Import risk analysis: Llamas and alpacas from specified countries MAF Biosecurity New Zealand