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Case definition published for avian flu in cattle
Image: a chicken wandering by cattle
The UK government has said that it is monitoring the situation in the USA.
APHA adds definition following cases in US herds.

The UK’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its case definition and diagnostic testing criteria for highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in mammals, following the spread of the virus among dairy cattle in the USA.

A new suspect case definition has been added for cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. The criteria include the animal being on a farm, or near a location, where avian flu has been detected, and, for dairy animals, a sudden unexplained drop in herd level milk production.

Since March 2024, several cases of avian flu have been detected in cattle herds in the USA. So far, it has been confirmed in nine states. Cattle being transported between states are now being tested for the virus.

In April, the US Department of Agriculture stated that evidence suggested that cattle-to-cattle transmission was taking place.

Although there is currently no evidence of the virus affecting cattle in the UK, the UK government has said that it is taking the outbreak in the USA very seriously. The new case definition will help APHA to monitor, triage and, when necessary, test any report cases that arise.

A government spokesperson said: “We are monitoring reports of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) identified in dairy cattle in the USA and are working closely with international counterparts to better understand the virus strain associated with these cases.

“This does not change the risk level for animals in the UK, which is currently ‘low’ and we have no reason to suspect the virus is circulating in our cattle and nor is this virus strain circulating in Europe.”

Image © Shutterstock

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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.