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Avian flu confirmed at tenth Lincolnshire premises
The UK's chief vet has urged poultry keepers to take biosecurity steps to protect their flocks.
All birds will be humanely culled and surveillance zones are in place.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been confirmed at a tenth premises in Lincolnshire, the APHA has confirmed.

All birds at the affected premises, based near Alford, East Lindsey, will be humanely culled and a 3km protection zone and a 10km surveillance zone have been placed around the premises.

To date, the Government has confirmed 62 cases of avian influenza in England this season. There have also been five confirmed cases in Scotland and three cases in Wales.

The UK’s chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss previously urged poultry keepers to undertake urgent biosecurity measures to keep their birds safe and prevent the further spread of the disease.

She said:“We have taken swift action to limit the spread of the disease including introducing housing measures. However, we are seeing a growing number of bird flu cases both on commercial farms and in backyard birds right across the country.
 
 “Implementing scrupulous biosecurity has never been more critical. You must regularly clean and disinfect your footwear and clothes before entering enclosures, stop your birds mixing with any wild birds and only allow visitors that are strictly necessary.”

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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.