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Bluetongue restriction zone expands
The UK is said to be in 'a seasonally low vector period' for bluetongue virus.

Defra has identified further cases of the virus in Dorset.

A restriction on the movement of cattle has been extended to Dorset following the identification of bluetongue (BTV-3) disease.

The confirmation of cases by the APHA and DEFRA brings the total number of of BTV-3 cases in Great Britain for the 2024/25 vector season to 212.

A spokesperson for the APHA said: “Following the identification of cases in cattle in Dorset as part of the winter surveillance and in accordance with our policy of seeking to contain and slow the spread of disease by preventing the long distance moves of high-risk infected animals, the restricted zone was further extended on 14 February 2025 to include: Dorset, Additional areas of Wiltshire, Somerset (part), East Devon (part).”

The UK’s chief veterinary officer (CVO) Christine Middlemiss recently stated the UK was currently ‘a seasonally low vector period’ for bluetongue virus, but urged farmers to remain vigilant for the disease.

She added: “We are committed to working with everyone affected and will continue to keep the Restricted Zone under review.”

Bluetongue virus is a notifiable disease that should be reported to the APHA on 03000 200 301

Image (C) 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.