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APHA confirms three further avian flu cases in England
Three further cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza have been confirmed in England.
Restrictions have been placed around the affected premises to limit disease spread.

The APHA has confirmed three further cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza in England.

On Saturday (19 December) highly pathogenic (H5N1) avian influenza was identified in backyard chickens near Hawes, North Yorkshire. 

Testing is underway to confirm whether this is also the same H5N1 strain that was previously found in wild birds. A 3km and 10km Temporary Control Zone and 10km Temporary Movement Restriction Zone have been declared around the premises. 

Also on Saturday, a separate case of highly pathogenic (H5N8) avian influenza was confirmed in backyard poultry near Gillingham, Dorset. All birds on the premises will be humanely culled. A 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone has been declared. 

Finally, on Sunday (20 December) the APHA confirmed HPAI H5N8 on a commercial duck breeding premises near Attleborough, Norfolk. All poultry on the premises will be humanely culled. The 3km and 10km Temporary Control Zone has been revoked and replaced by a 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone.

For more information on avian influenza, including the latest guidance, visit 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.