How does atypical BSE differ from the classic form in terms of risk?

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Atypical BSE Poses Less Risk to Humans Than the Classic Form

An isolated case of atypical bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as "mad cow disease," has been identified in the Netherlands. This specific variant, found in an eight-year-old cow, is believed to pose a lower risk to human health compared to the classic form of the disease. The infected animal did not enter the food chain, assuring that food safety was not compromised.
Atypical BSE Arises Sporadically

The identified case involves an "atypical" variant of BSE, which emerges spontaneously in animals, typically older cows. This form is distinct from the classic strain, which historically spread through specific farming practices. The Dutch Ministry of Agriculture confirmed that this marks the first detection of BSE in the Netherlands since 2011.
Classic BSE Spread Through Feed Contamination

In contrast to the atypical variant, the classic form of BSE is known to spread when cattle are fed meat and bone meal derived from infected animals. This method of transmission facilitated the wider dissemination of the classic form, as seen when it first emerged in Britain in the 1980s, leading to significant consumer concern and impacting the beef industry globally.
Classic BSE Poses Greater Danger

Agriculture Minister Piet Adema stated that the infected cow did not enter the food chain and therefore did not pose a risk to food safety. BSE is linked to the fatal human condition Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease if contaminated meat is consumed. The classic form of BSE is considered to present a greater danger to humans due to its mode of transmission and potential for wider contamination.
Traceability and Culling Measures in Place

Following the identification of the atypical BSE case, Dutch authorities have taken measures to contain any potential spread. The farm in South Holland province has been sealed off, and animals that shared their initial growth period with the infected cow, including a calf, are being culled and tested. A total of 13 bovines have been traced for this purpose. The Netherlands has reported 88 cases of classic BSE and four atypical cases since 1997.

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How does atypical BSE differ from the classic form in terms of risk?

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