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‘Worrying escalation’ of swine dysentery cases, NPA says
NPA said the cases continue the ‘worrying escalation’ of outbreaks in recent weeks.
Increased biosecurity and monitoring recommended 

The National Pig Association (NPA) is calling for increased biosecurity on pig farms after four new cases of swine dysentery were confirmed in one day last week.

Three cases were detected in North Yorkshire, one on a finisher unit, while a fourth case was identified on a finishing unit in Gloucestershire on 22 March.

Strict biosecurity and bio-containment measures are in place and treatment is ongoing at the units. One of the units is said to be ‘responding well’ to treatment. The origin of the outbreaks is not known, but investigations are underway, according to AHDB.

NPA said the cases continue the ‘worrying escalation’ of outbreaks in recent weeks. The association is warning farmers who have recently moved pigs from North Yorkshire to monitor them closely for the development of clinical signs.

AHDB stressed the importance of enhanced biosecurity and monitoring for clinical signs over the next few weeks, particularly in North Yorkshire and Gloucestershire.

Earlier this month, AHDB reported three outbreaks across three different counties in the north and east of the country over a period of two weeks.

Click here for NPA guidance on biosecurity measures.

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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.