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Colostrum and whey could have a role in TB control
dairy cows
High sensitivity tests may be key to bTB eradication, researchers say.
Australian researchers highlight the importance of high sensitivity tests

Colostrum and colostral whey could have an important role to play in the control and eradication of bovine TB in the UK, according to researchers from the University of Adelaide in Australia.

Writing in the Veterinary Record letters, researchers from the university's School of Animals and Veterinary Sciences, said recent research has underlined the need for tests with high diagnostic sensitivity.

A new test for alpacas may even have applications for cattle, they said. The recently launched multiplex TB immunoassay shows superior sensitivity compared to the intradermal test for alpacas.

Recent research on Johne's disease in vaccinated sheep also found that using colostrum or colostral whey showed a significant increase in antibody ELISA sensitivity.

"We are not aware of any current research in the UK on bovine TB or Johne's disease using colostrum or colostral whey to parameterise antibody assays and wish to draw attention to the potential of these samples to increase diagnostic sensitivities," they wrote

"Colostrum is readily available on dairy farms and is easy to collect and store. Current bovine TB and Johne's disease research projects may be able to incorporate the collection of colostrum without major additional expense."

The full letter can be found in Vet Record Vol 175 No 23.

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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.