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Public encouraged to report blue-green algae
Blue-green algae is harmful to people and animals.
Photos uploaded to app will be used to alert local authorities.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is encouraging members of the public to help monitor freshwater sites for harmful blue-green algae by reporting sightings through an app.

Anyone spending time at places where the algae is likely to bloom, such as lakes, ponds, canals, rivers and reservoirs, will be able to use the “Bloomin’ Algae” app to report the presence of algal blooms.

The app, developed by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), allows users to upload a photo of the algae along with information about the location and date of the bloom. There is also the option to share information about any activities that are taking place there, to allow the UKCEH team to assess the level of risk to humans and animals.

All reports are examined by environmental experts to verify whether it is blue-green algae or something else. The relevant local authorities, agencies, and landowners are then alerted to enable them to provide warnings to water users.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, is toxic to dogs when ingested. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, blood in faeces, disorientation, breathing difficulties, and seizures. Without treatment, it can prove fatal.

It also poses a health risk to people, livestock, and wild animals.

The app, which can also be used by people in England, Wales, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland, is free to download from Google Play or the App Store.

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FIVP announces third series of Practice Matters

News Story 1
 The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) has announced a third season of its podcast, Practice Matters.

Hosted by Ian Wolstenholme, series three will focus on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation, including a discussion about some of the expected impacts on independent veterinary colleagues.

Episode one launches on 13th January with guests Drs David Reader and Scott Summers, who will draw on their research into the CMA investigation and provide insights into themes such as transparency, pricing and consumer trust.

Ian Wolstenholme said: "In its third series, we will try and hone in on what the changes will mean in reality for independent practices with advice and guidance on implementation and delivery, drawing on the experience of our own team and other experts in the profession. Hope you can join us soon!" 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk