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Brazil reports first ever cases of avian flu
The H5N1 subtype of the influenza virus was found in two marine birds on the southeastern coast of Brazil.
The cases were found in two wild marine birds.

Brazil’s first ever cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) have been confirmed by Brazil’s Agriculture Ministry on 15 May. The H5N1 subtype of the influenza virus was found in two marine birds on the coast of Brazil's southeastern state of Espirito Santo.

The government confirmed that epidemiological surveillance services will be increased in the nearby area, to detect any further cases of avian flu in wild and commercial animals.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) does not recommend a ban on imports of Brazilian poultry products because the cases were found in wild animals.

Brazil is one of the world’s largest exporters of chicken, trading with countries such as China, Japan, South Africa and Saudi Arabia. Its chicken exports rose by 27 per cent in 2022 while other countries experienced outbreaks of avian flu.

Miguel Gularte, CEO of a large chicken exporting company in Brazil told a press conference that he was not surprised by the case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, adding the company was prepared for any scenario. He noted the company relies on Brazil’s "robust" animal health services to prevent and contain any potential threats to industrial poultry farms.

Brazil’s neighbouring country Argentina, recorded its first case of avian flu in its poultry industry in late February. It suspended exports until late March, when the area was confirmed as being free of avian flu. 

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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.