COVID-19 outbreaks prompt the Netherlands to ban mink farming

Following recent reports of minks passing COVID-19 to humans on Dutch fur farms, the country’s parliament has voted in favour of their imminent closure.

The country had previously stated that they would ban all fur farms by 2024. However, the government has been under pressure from animal rights groups to prevent farms from operating and bring the date of closure forward. Given the current risk to both human and animal life in the face of a global pandemic, the move to cease business is a step in the right direction.

The source of COVID-19 is thought to have a zoonotic origin, first infecting humans that came into contact with animals at Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market. The so-called ‘wet market’ poses a similar risk to public health as fur farms. This is largely due to people coming into close contact with both dead and live animals at the same site, making it very difficult to prevent contamination and maintain hygiene standards.

Additionally, the poor conditions in fur farms often lead to infections and illnesses which are left to spread without treatment. They also typically have poor sanitation and issues with overcrowding, meaning that workers and handlers are incredibly susceptible to disease.

As well as being breeding grounds for infection, mink farms are an ethical concern. Minks in the wild are solitary animals, spending time roaming and swimming. Being confined to overpopulated cages and unable to engage in natural behaviours often leads to psychological and physical distress. In extreme but common cases, mink will self-cannibalise from the torment.

Given the current climate, banning this industry in the Netherlands will actively protect human life, whilst also preventing the needless suffering of minks for their fur.

Reports state that the ban will come into force by the end of the year.

| Article by Martha Moody- United Kingdom