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Avian influenza reported in Norfolk grey seals
Carcasses have been collected from the North Norfolk coast.
It is the first non-avian case reported by Defra since 2023.

Defra and the Animal Plant and Health Agency (APHA) have revealed that two grey seals on the North Norfolk coast have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N5.

These are the first cases of non-avian wildlife contracting avian influenza that have been reported in England, Scotland and Wales since 2023.

In a statement released on 18 February, the UK government revealed that influenza of avian origin had been detected in a ‘small number’ of grey seals on the North Norfolk coast. Avian influenza had also been reported in a number of wild birds in the area.

Findings revealed that carcasses had been collected from Norfolk, with two grey seals confirmed to be positive for HPAI H5N5.

Defra and APHA state that this is not above the usual annual mortality rate for the site. They say that this is testament to the effectiveness of wildlife surveillance systems in place in the UK.

There is no evidence that there is an increased risk of avian influenza to non-avian species.

Current research finds that mammals will contract avian influenza if they have close contact with wild birds or contaminated environments. This includes consuming infected animals or coming into contact with their feathers, faeces and other contaminated objects.

The last time avian influenza was reported by Defra and APHA in non-avian wildlife was in 2023, when the H5N1 strain was identified in dolphins, otters, red foxes and a porpoise.

HPAI H5N1 is continuing to be reported in a number of sites across the UK. Across 18 and 19 February, three cases were identified in Market Weighton in Yorkshire and one case was identified in Teignmouth in Devon.

A 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone has been implemented at the Teignmouth site and two of the Market Weighton sites. All poultry on the premises was humanely culled.

The other Market Weighton site is surrounded by a 3km captive bird (monitoring) controlled zone, with all affected birds humanely culled.

Elsewhere, following successful completion of disease control activities, a 10km surveillance zone at Rye in East Sussex has been revoked and a 3km protection zone near Easingwold in North Yorkshire has been replaced with a 3km surveillance zone.

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.