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High fluke risk forecasted for parts of UK
Farmers are advised to check the fluke forecast for their area.
Greater risk due to high rainfall in summer

Parts of the UK are facing higher risk of liver fluke this autumn, according to the latest parasite forecast from SCOPS.

Met Office reports show rainfall was relatively low over the winter of 2016-17. However, parts of Scotland, Wales, North and South-West England saw higher than normal rainfall in June/July this year.

Rainfall was lower in August but there is a greater risk of fluke in these areas owing to wetter than average weather earlier in the summer.

The NADIS forecast predicts a high risk of fluke infection in western Scotland and South Wales this autumn. Meanwhile there is potential for medium risk in eastern Scotland, North-West England, South-West England and North Wales.

Elsewhere, in the central and eastern regions of England, there is currently thought to be a low risk. However, the forecast may change depending on rainfall in September and October.

Acute fluke in sheep was confirmed in Cheshire last month, while positive results were also reported from lambs in South West Scotland, and from Parasite Waatch farms in South West England and South West Wales.

Farmers are advised to check the fluke forecast for their area and discuss testing or treatment options with their vet, in addition to quarantine protocols for new or returning animals.

Sudden deaths in sheep should be investigated and it is advisable to reduce fluke risk through management where possible. For example, removing sheep or cattle from the wettest fields or housing early.

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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.