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New Research Projects to Fight Influenza
Two of the projects will focus on researching influenza in pigs.
The European Commission has announced the results of its €18 million call for proposals for new research projects on influenza.


Four collaborative research projects have so far been shortlisted for funding. They involve 52 research institutes and SMEs from 18 European countries and 3 international partners (Israel, China, the United States).

Influenza virus genes migrate across continents and between species and seriously threaten both human and animal health. Two consortia will focus their research on influenza in pigs while the two others will develop innovative drugs against influenza in humans. Their selection is part of the EU's longstanding support for research on influenza and brings the total Commission funding in this field to over €100 million since 2001.

EU Commissioner for Research, Innovation and Science Máire Geoghegan-Quinn said: "Seasonal flu alone can kill 250,000 – 500,000 people worldwide every year and EU-funded research projects like these can help save lives. What is more, successful EU research in preventing and treating flu and other diseases has enormous social and economic value and can contribute significantly to our Europe 2020 goals".

For more information about the projects please click here.

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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.