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Uruguay bans EU genetic material imports
Image - Johan Doe
Concern over Schmallenberg Virus prompts ban

Uruguay’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries has announced a ban on the import of all genetic material from the European Union, citing concerns over the Schmallenberg Virus (SBV). The ban will hold until such time as it can be demonstrated that SBV cannot be transmitted by genetic material. EU research has acknowledged that “there are risks of vertical transmissions (cow to calf) of the disease as well as with semen or embryos.”

A statement from the Ministry said that “Taking into account the fact that the EU is developing studies relative to epidemiologic characteristics of the disease with the purpose of implementing effective diagnosis and control measures, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries has decided to temporary suspend the access to the country, and transit, of genetic material of species susceptible to the Schmallenberg Virus from countries suffering the disease. Only genetic material previous to May first 2011 will be allowed into Uruguay”.

Uruguay's farming sector imported 65,626 shipments of cattle semen from Denmark, France, Germany, Holland, Spain, Sweden and the UK last year. The majority of the imports were in the form of Holstein Dairy Cattle semen, originating from the Netherlands.

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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.