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VMD recalls chicken vaccine over efficacy concerns
The VMD has issued a product recall alert for a single batch of Salmovac 400.
Veterinary surgeons urged to examine their inventories immediately.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has issued a product recall alert for a batch of Salmovac 440, manufactured by CEVA Animal Health, over concerns about its efficacy.

Salmovac 440 is used in chickens to protect them against Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium. Usually administered via drinking water, it contains the contains the live Salmonella Enteritidis strain in freeze-dried form. 

The VMD writes: ‘We wish to make veterinary surgeons aware that Ceva Animal Health Ltd has initiated a Class II recall to veterinary level for the product Salmovac 440.

‘Following testing Ceva Animal Health Ltd have confirmed that Batch No. 3000520B with an Expiry date of 11 December 2021 has live bacterial count values (potency) below the authorised specification and there is potential for a lack of efficacy.

‘Ceva Animal Health Ltd is contacting veterinary surgeons to examine inventory immediately and quarantine products subject to this recall.’

Further information about the recall is available from Ms Helen Houghton, poultry business unit manager, on 01494 781510. 

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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.