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H7N9 detected at Hong Kong poultry stall
birds
Authorities are attempting to trace the source of the affected poultry (stock photo).
Authorities cull thousands of birds
 
Routine testing has confirmed the presence of H7N9 avian influenza at a poultry stall in Hong Kong. Authorities are culling 4,500 birds and the live poultry trade has been suspended.

A sample of faecal droppings was taken from the stall in Yan Oi Market, Tuen Mun, as part of a surveillance programme by the University of Hong Kong. It tested positive for H7N9 on 4 June, according to a statement from the city's Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD).

'The affected stall sells live poultry, including live chickens and pigeons,' a spokesperson said. 'The FEHD, upon receiving the test result, has immediately conducted thorough cleansing and disinfection at the two stalls and is tracing the source of the poultry.

Poultry imports and the trading of live poultry have been suspended, as has the supply of chickens from local farms. Local chicken farms will be will be inspected and samples collected for testing to ensure none of the local poultry has become infected.

H7N9 was first detected in humans in mainland China just over three years ago.

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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.