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Defra sets out plans to control bluetongue spread
The most recent confirmed case of bluetongue in England was on 8 March 2024.
The probability of new cases this year is considered to be very high.

New plans on how to manage any outbreak of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England this year have been set out by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Movement control zones, which were used for earlier cases, are likely to be used again in areas where the disease is identified. The zones will be kept under constant review and modified or withdrawn depending on the spread of the disease.

In advance of any zones being declared, free BTV-3 tests will be available for livestock being moved to live elsewhere in Great Britain from the counties where the risk of the virus is highest: Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent and East Sussex.

Limited culling of infected animals will also continue to be used to contain the virus. However, if there is evidence that bluetongue is circulating in biting midges in the area, culling will not take place as it will no longer be deemed an effective control measure.

There are currently no plans for a vaccine to be authorised in the immediate future, despite two vaccines being given approval for use in the Netherlands. Defra says that it is continuing to engage with vaccine manufacturers over the development and supply of a safe and effective vaccine.

Since November 2023, there have been 126 cases confirmed in England, with the most recent confirmed on 8 March 2024. A recent risk assessment found that there is a very high probability of the virus being introduced into livestock in England this year by windborne midges from northern Europe.

Chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “The Bluetongue Disease Control Framework sets out how we will work to minimise the impact of a potential outbreak of disease, using the latest scientific and veterinary advice to reduce disease transmission as much as possible.

“We know that the likelihood of bluetongue virus entering Great Britain is increasing and so I would urge farmers to remain vigilant and report any suspicions to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.”  

Biosecurity minister Lord Douglas Miller added: “We are actively engaging with vaccine manufacturers and industry about access to a safe and effective BTV-3 vaccine that has undergone thorough due diligence.

“All disease control decisions will be kept under constant review to ensure they remain proportionate and as effective as possible in controlling the spread of the disease.”

The full framework can be read on the Defra website.

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.