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BTV update: France reports 230 outbreaks
sheep and lambs
BTV-8 now appears to be established in the Auvergne region of central France, which is around 300 miles from the Channel.
Vets have a 'huge role' in discussing vaccination
 
France has now reported more than 230 outbreaks of bluetongue serotype 8 (BTV-8). The UK's chief veterinary officer Nigel Gibbens is advising farmers to take steps to protect their flocks, including talking to their vet about vaccination.

Earlier in the year, there were concerns about a possible vaccine shortage. The National Sheep Association (NSA) warned that low uptake in the past had made manufacturers reluctant to produce it. Writing in theVet Record, however, Mr Gibbens said: 'We understand the vaccine will be available for use in the UK this summer'.

BTV-8 now appears to be established in the Auvergne region of central France, which is around 300 miles from the Channel. Mr Gibbens said the threat to the UK 'remains uncertain' but the disease has 'almost certainly' overwintered and is likely to spread through France this spring and summer.

As a result, the UK will be at greater risk of an outbreak due to midge-borne spread from the continent. The risk is expected to increase towards the end of summer, affecting the south and south-east of England in particular.

The virus is carried by midges and affects all ruminants. While it does not affect human health or food safety, it can have serious financial consequences for farmers due to movement controls and loss of productivity.

Vaccinating before the warm weather sets in will provide protection before the risk of infection increases, Mr Gibbens wrote. Vets have a 'huge role' to play in advising clients on vaccination and training keepers to recognise signs of the disease.

Vets and livestock keepers should also consider the risks of importing or moving susceptible species, and check the animals' health status, particularly when sourcing stock from other European countries. All animals from affected countries are subject to statutory testing after arrival in the UK.

As bluetongue is a notifiable disease, suspected cases must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency. This can be done via the Defra rural services helping on 03000 200 301.

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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.