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Avian flu cases confirmed in Norfolk
A case of HPAI H5N8 avian influenza has been confirmed in rearing ducks at a premises in Norfolk.

Disease found in non-poultry at captive bird premises.

Two further cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPA1 H5N8) have been confirmed in England.

On 28 December, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), confirmed the disease in rearing ducks at a premises in Norfolk.

All birds on the infected site near Watton, Breckland, have been humanely culled. 'A 3.4km Protection Zone and 10.4km Surveillance Zone has been declared around the premises', the APHA said. 

On 26 December, H5N8 was confirmed at a captive bird, non-poultry, premises near Attleborough, Breckland, Norfolk.

'Further testing confirmed this to be the highly pathogenic strain,' the APHA said. 'All birds on the infected premises have been humanely culled and a 3km Protection Zone and 10km Temporary Control Surveillance Zone have been declared around the premises'.

Since 14 December, it has been a legal requirement for all bird keepers to keep their birds indoors. 

A joint statement from the UK's three Chief Veterinary Officers read: “Whether you keep just a few birds or thousands, from 14 December onwards you will be legally required to keep your birds indoors or take appropriate steps to keep them separate from wild birds. We have not taken this decision lightly, but it is the best way to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease.”

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.