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New ovine enzootic abortion vaccine in development
"We are very encouraged by the new vaccine results." - Dr David Longbottom.
The work is led by Dr David Longbottom, of the Moredun Research Institute. 

Scientists at the Moredun Research Institute are developing a new vaccine against ovine enzootic abortion.

Ovine enzootic abortion is the most common cause of abortion in sheep in the UK, and is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia abortus, which invades the placenta during pregnancy. The disease can also cause life-threatening illness and abortion in humans.

The disease spreads through ingestion and inhalation, and a high level of environmental contamination by infected ewes in lambing pens is a key point in the spread of disease.

Led by Dr David Longbottom, the scientists at Moredun have completed the first stage in the development of the vaccine, which is similar to the live variation, but does not possess the ability to grow and cause infections in the host animal. 

Dr Longbottom commented on the ongoing development process: “We are very encouraged that the new vaccine results in a similar protective response to that generated following a natural infection or resulting from the live vaccines but importantly without the ability to cause disease.”

More about the vaccine can be read in this study, published in Vaccines. 

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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.