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SBV found in 3 new counties
More cases confirmed

The presence of the Schmallenberg Virus (SBV) has been confirmed in three more areas in southern England. The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) have confirmed that SBV has been detected in Gloucestershire, in West Berkshire, and on the Isle of Wight. Cases have already been identified in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, East Sussex, West Sussex, Kent, Surrey, Hertfordshire, Wiltshire, Hertfordshire and Cornwall. Dorset, Devon, Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire are now deemed 'at risk'.

AHVLA have also confirmed that the total number of cases has risen to 83, of which 5 are in cattle and 78 are in sheep. It is likely, however, that the disease has been under-reported due to the fact that not all farms have begun lambing or calving yet and that the total number of affected farms could be dramatically higher.

In excess of 1,000 cases have now been confirmed across Europe. Countries known to be infected include Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and the UK. However, AHVLA have also confirmed that none of the farms known to be affected imported animals from areas in Europe that are also known to be affected during 2011.

A breakdown of case locations and numbers is available at the AHVLA website.

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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.