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First bluetongue cases of 2024 confirmed
The total number of cases in England since November stands at 44.
New cases found in Norfolk and Kent.

The first bluetongue cases of 2024 have been confirmed by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), following active surveillance within the existing Temporary Control Zones (TCZs) in Norfolk and Kent.

Five cases in cattle within the Norfolk TCZ have been discovered, including at two new premises.

There have also been four cases discovered in cattle in the Deal area within the north-east Kent TCZ.

The new cases bring the total number in England to 44 on 24 different premises. The first case was confirmed in Kent in November 2023. According to APHA, there is still no evidence that the virus is circulating in midges in Great Britain.

While movement of livestock within TCZs is restricted, Defra has made licenses available for moving livestock out of TCZs for welfare reasons.

Joseph Henry, chair of the Ruminant Health and Welfare bluetongue working group, said: “Applications for these licenses can only be made where animal welfare is likely to be compromised.”

“If you are a farmer in the current TCZ, we strongly recommend that you apply as soon as you are aware that the welfare of your animals may become compromised.

“Farmers may wish to ask their vets to assist in completing the application, ensuring you highlight the reasons why welfare is likely to be affected if you don’t move the animals.

“Each licence application is assessed individually, so it is important that all necessary information is given to allow appropriate risk assessments to be conducted.”

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Suspected cases must be reported immediately on 03000 200 301 in England or 03003 038 268 in Wales. In Scotland, suspected cases should be reported to the local field services office.

Image © Shutterstock

 

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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!" 

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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