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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 25th June 2012
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New direction for ZNCP
Zoonoses National Control Programme stepping up a gear

From July 2012, the Zoonoses National Control Programme will be stepping up a gear to help farmers identify the best salmonella control methods for their particular farm.

The current meat juice testing for salmonella antibodies will be suspended on 1st July 2012 to make way for an on-farm salmonella risk assessment tool which will help identify the most effective control methods for each producer's set up.

Katrin Turvey, veterinary programme manager for BPEX, said: “The new tool will provide farmers with clear information regarding the herd’s current salmonella risks. The farmer or veterinarian can  use the outcomes of the risk assessment  to create  a meaningful  on farm salmonella control plan, which is a requirement of red tractor assurance."

These scored risk assessments, along with exploration into bacteriological testing, will increase understanding of the link between primary production and public health.

Katrin added: “We are developing the programme to ensure that all stages of the supply chain are taking effective action to stop the spread of salmonella, re-focusing resources away from routine salmonella sampling.”

Because there are many parallels between the ZNCP and the Pig Health Improvement Project (PHIP), the two schemes have now been streamlined under a ‘one health’ umbrella.

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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.