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Avian influenza identified in Staffordshire
A case of H5N8 avian influenza has been confirmed in chickens at a premises in Staffordshire.
Discovery comes ahead of the lifting of housing restrictions on Wednesday. 

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N8 has been confirmed in broiler chickens at a commercial premises in East Staffordshire.

A 3km Protection and 10km Surveillance Zone has been placed around the infected premises near Uttoxeter, replacing the Temporary Control Zones introduced on 27 March 2021. 

This is the fourteenth case of (HPAI) H5N8 in poultry in England and comes ahead of the lifting of compulsory housing measures for poultry and captive birds (31 March). The APHA has stated that it is currently reviewing this situation and will provide clarification 'very soon'.

Earlier this month, the APHA reduced the risk level of avian influenza in the UK from ‘high’ to ‘medium’. While the compulsory housing restrictions are set to end, the avian influenza prevention zone requiring enhanced biosecurity will remain in place. 

Under the AIPZ, bird gatherings are still prohibited and high standards of biosecurity remain essential. In a joint statement Great Britain’s three Chief Veterinary Officers said: 

“We have taken swift action to contain and eliminate this disease and all bird keepers - whether they have just a few birds or thousands - must continue to do their bit to maintain strict biosecurity measures on their premises so that we do not lose the progress that we have made over the past few months as Low risk does not mean No Risk.”

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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.