Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 6th January 2012
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
Pig pathogen added to disease model portfolio
Researchers complete validation of bacterial pathogen.

Researchers at Moredun Scientific have completed the validation of a Streptococcus suis Serotype 2 disease model in weaner piglets. It is hoped that it will prove useful in the formulation of vaccines and studies into therapeutic efficacy.

Streptococcus suis, a bacterial pathogen of pigs, is of great importance to the global pig industry because of the economic ramifications of disease outbreaks and the according effects on the welfare of infected herds. The disease can make the jump to humans if protocols to prevent the spread of blood-borne diseases are not followed.

An outbreak which started in the Sichaun Province of western China in July 2005 led to over two hundred people being infected and 38 fatalities. The disease has also been identified as the most common cause of meningitis in Vietnam.

Serotype 2 is the strain of the disease which has been identified as being responsible for the majority of infections, and no licensed vaccine is currently available.

Head of Animal Health at Moredun Scientific David Reddick said: "We are pleased to extend our disease model portfolio to offer a highly effective model of S.suis infection to our animal health clients supporting their efforts to prevent and control the disease." 

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.