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BSE confirmed in Wales
cows
BSE is a progressive, fatal disease of the nervous system in cattle.
Isolated case in dead cow

A single case of classical BSE has been confirmed in a dead cow in Wales.

Rebecca Evans, the Welsh deputy minister for farming and food, said: "The case was identified as a result of the strict control measures we have in place. It did not enter the human food chain and the Food Standards Agency and Public Health Wales have confirmed there is no risk to human health as a result of this isolated case."

The animal's offspring and other cohorts have been traced and isolated. They will be destroyed in line with EU requirements. Ms Evans says the Welsh Government is working alongside Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency to investigate the circumstances of this case.

Prior to this, the last Welsh case was recorded in 2013. Sporadic cases have been confirmed across the UK in recent years.

BSE, often referred to as 'mad cow disease' is a progressive, fatal disease of the nervous system in cattle. All animals that die on a farm over the age of four are routinely tested for BSE in Wales. 

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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.