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New blood test for TB in camelids is “groundbreaking”
camelids
The current skin test for TB in camelids is known to be imprecise.
UK's first voluntary surveillance scheme launches

A “groundbreaking” new blood test has been launched for bovine TB (bTB) in camelids. The test is part of the UK's first voluntary TB surveillance scheme for the camelid industry.

The serological test requires just one blood sample and offers far greater accuracy than the current skin test, which is known to be imprecise, according to SureFarm who co-developed the test.

Claire Whitehead, president of the British Camelid Veterinary Society, said: “Bovine TB is not prevalent in camelids but the introduction of this new serological blood test will take away the uncertainty of the skin test and provide an opportunity for owners to verify the health of their herds.”

Research is being carried out that may make the test available for use in the wider farming, zoological and pet industries.

SureFarm collaborated with SureTest and Enfer Laboratories to develop the Enferplex blood test, which launched yesterday (July 17).

It enables both herd level testing and testing of individual stock.

The voluntary scheme, known as SureFarm Camelid Diagnostics, has been developed over the past two years with Defra, the AHVLA and representative organisations such as the British Alpaca Society and British Camelid Society.

Peter Roissetter, of the British Alpaca Society, commented: “We are very pleased that government has approved this groundbreaking voluntary scheme...

“The BAS is optimistic that government will soon finalise a realistic compensation package and the protocols for use in a confirmed TB breakdown, which will complete the overall approach we take in combating this disease.”

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.