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Possible SBV countermeasure in testing
Researchers look into method of controlling midges

Researchers from the Integrated Management of forest Pests Addressing Climate Trends (IMPACT) project based in Swansea and Aberystwyth are currently investigating the use of a fungus to control the population of midges that spread the Schmallenberg Virus (SBV). The project is being co-funded by Forestry Commission Wales, COFORD and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

It was already known to researchers that the Metarhizium anisopliae fungus was lethal to the Culicoides nubeculosus midge larvae, but experiments in Swansea have demonstrated that the V275 strain of the fungus is also capable of killing the adult midge. Some applications were able to achieve a 100% success rate within a period of five days.

Commenting, Professor Tariq Butt of Swansea University explained that “Current control measures rely on synthetic pesticides, which pose a risk to humans and the environment, whereas natural alternatives do not. With climate change projecting warmer, wetter weather leading to larger midge populations, these could prove a very useful alternative in reducing their numbers.”

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.