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Leading experts meet to discuss TB eradication
Professor Glyn Hewinson and Dr Bernardo Villarreal-Ramos organised the Aberystwyth conference.

Aberystwyth University hosts conference for member of the Acid Fast Club.

Leading researchers gathered last week (30 June – 1 July) in Aberystwyth to examine the most recent advancements in the fight against tuberculosis (TB).

More than 100 scientists from across the UK gathered at the conference, hosted by Aberystwyth University's Centre of Excellence for Bovine TB. The experts were all members of the Acid Fast Club, formed in 1954 at the National Institute for Medical Research.

Meeting twice a year to share all aspects of research on human and bovine TB, the Acid Fast Club has become the UK's leading mycobacterial research society. 

In his opening address, event co-organiser Professor Glyn Hewinson provided an overview of bovine tuberculosis in Wales and the work of the Sêr Cymru Centre of Excellence for Bovine TB at the University. 

Speaking about the importance of the conference, Professor Hewinson commented: “It was a pleasure to welcome all the experts here to Aberystwyth. We all know about the severe impact of TB on our communities: collaboration is vital as we seek the best way forward to eradicate it. 


“This society and its conferences are very valuable for getting to know what research is happening around the UK nations, sharing knowledge and expertise, encouraging researchers at the early stages of their careers and building collaborations and friendships with other research scientists along the way. Its longevity, as it nears its seventieth anniversary, is a testament to the vision of its founders.”

Image (C) Aberystwyth University.

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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.