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Scientists develop new bTB test
The Actiphage test can detect live bacteria in blood or milk in as little as six hours.
Test can detect infected cattle before infection spreads

A new testing kit for bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is set to bring fresh hope to farmers across the United Kingdom.

Developed by PDB Biotech, the Actiphage test can detect live bacteria in blood or milk in as little as six hours and has been proven to identify infected cattle before infection spreads.

“The existing skin test is based on the animal’s immune response, and takes three days to produce a result, but more worryingly is known to miss about 20 per cent of infected animals,” said Dr Cath Rees, co-founder of PBD Biotech.

“Our new test is unique as it is the only test that directly detects live bacteria in blood or milk and is fast, specific and highly sensitive. Additionally the test can distinguish between a vaccinated and an infected animal (DIVA test) paving the way for new types of disease control in the future when vaccines are available.”

The launch of the test follows a trial in the West Country with veterinary surgeon Dick Sibley. Sibley tested for bTB in blood, milk and faeces and found that the phage test was able to detect infection months before the skin test gave a positive result. By using the test, and introducing strict biosecurity and hygiene controls, Sibley managed to reduce levels of bTB from the herd, leading to the first clear skin test results for five years.

PBD Biotech states that the test is not yet licensed for commercial use. However, it is available for research and validation studies, which are vital for approval by Defra and other global authorities.

They add that it could also be used by the dairy industry, allowing for the rapid detection of contaminated milk. It may also give cows a clean bill of health before travel, preventing disease spread and giving the industry new ways to control movement of potentially infectious animals.

The test will be available from the end of November 2017 via www.pbdbio.com

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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.