Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 27th June 2022
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Chief vet removes foot-and-mouth disease control zone
The symptoms of swine vesicular disease can be confused with foot and mouth disease.
Officials declare a new temporary control zone for swine vesicular disease.

A temporary disease control zone has been removed after tests for a suspected case of foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV) returned negative. 

The 10km control zone was placed around a premises near Feltwell, Kings Lynn, on Thursday (June 23) following suspicion of vesicular disease in pigs.

In its latest update, Defra said: “Following official testing at the UK national reference laboratory, the UK Chief Veterinary Officer has negated suspicion of foot and mouth disease in pigs at a premises Near Feltwell, Kings Lynn and West Norfolk, Norfolk. The 10 km Temporary Control Zone (foot and mouth disease) has been revoked.

“Suspicion of vesicular disease in pigs remains and a new Temporary Control Zone (Swine vesicular disease) has been declared.”

According to Defra, the symptoms of swine vesicular disease can be confused with foot and mouth disease. The main sign is blisters, appearing at the top of hooves, between the toes and occasionally on the snout, tongue and lips. Other signs include lameness, loss of appetite and fever.

Swine vesicular disease is spread by contact with infected pigs or body fluids, pigs eating infectious meat, or contact with anything contaminated with the virus. Pig keepers are urged to practise good biosecurity on their premises and to report any suspected cases to the APHA.

The condition does not affect humans, although there have been some isolated cases of accidental infection of laboratory personnel working with the virus. The last UK outbreak occurred in 1982.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.