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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 11th November 2020
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Highly pathogenic avian flu found in wild geese
HPAI H5N8 has been confirmed in wild geese.

Farmers urged to strengthen their biosecurity measures.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed in wild birds in Gloucestershire.

According to the APHA, a strain of H5N8 avian influenza was identified in three wild geese – one Canada goose and two Greylag geese - near Stroud, on Tuesday (10 November). 

An investigation is now underway to see if the discovery is related to the H5N8 case in broiler breeder chickens near Frodsham, Cheshire.

The APHA said that the case in Stroud is unrelated to the case of Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N2 in Kent.

On Friday (6 November) the UK's chief veterinary officers (CVOs) raised the risk level of avian influenza in wild birds from 'medium' to 'high'. 

A joint statement for the UK's CVOs read: “We have acted quickly to prevent the spread of disease at both sites in England and are continuing to monitor the situation closely. Bird keepers should remain alert for any signs of disease and report suspected disease immediately.

“It is important now more than ever that bird keepers ensure they are doing all they can to maintain and strengthen good biosecurity on their premises to ensure we prevent further outbreaks.” 

More information including how to report dead wild birds and biosecurity advice is available on GOV.​UK

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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.