Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 25th January 2017
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Avian flu detected in Lancashire
pheasants
Defra says a full investigation is underway to determine the source of the infection. (stock photo)
Affected flock estimated to contain 10,000 birds

The UK’s chief veterinary officer has confirmed a new outbreak of H5N8 avian influenza in a flock of farmed breeding pheasants in Wyre, Lancashire.

Defra says a full investigation is underway to determine the source of the infection.

The flock is estimated to contain around 10,000 birds, a number of which have died. The remainder are being humanely culled. A 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been put in place to limit the risk of the disease spreading.

Defra has previously confirmed outbreaks of H5N8 in East Lindsey, Lancashire, on 16 January; Settle, North Yorkshire on 6 January; Carmarthenshire, Wales, on 4 January and Lincolnshire on 16 December. A number of cases have also been detected in wild birds.

Measures are in place across the UK to prevent the spread of avian influenza, including a requirement for poultry and captive birds to be housed indoors, and a ban on bird gatherings.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.