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AHVLA simplifies bTB testing instructions
Requirements clarified for herds affected by new TB breakdown

Taking effect from January 1, 2014, the AHVLA is simplifying bTB testing instructions for cattle herds affected by a new TB breakdown.

For herds in England that have their officially TB free status withdrawn (OTFW) as a result of a new TB breakdown, a minimum a two additional tuberculin (short interval) skin tests read at the "severe" interpretation will be required.

Going forward, the number and interpretation of additional short interval tests will depend on the scale of the tuberculin reaction, the post-mortem and laboratory culture results in other skin test reactors in the herd.

The AHVLA says this is not a policy change, but a clarification of existing instructions, which state that should test reactors be identified with visible lesions and/or culture-positive test results, the two additional skin tests will be required.

This requirement also applies to officially TB free status suspended (OTFS) herds that are suffering a new breakdown in the "edge of high risk" area. Should the herd require further short-interval tests following this, they will be read at the normal "standard" interpretation unless reactors show subsequent visible lesions or are culture positive.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.