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: 23rd July 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
New vaccine to simplify IBR control
UK takes step forward in disease control

The introduction of a new combined vaccination programme has seen the UK take a step forward in the fight against infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR).

Hitherto 'lagging behind' a lot of European countries when it comes to eradicating IBR, the new vaccination programme incorporates the use of both 'live' and 'inactivated' vaccines and is meant to give protection for up to 12 months.

Dr Peter Nettleton, an independent veterinary virologist formerly with the Moredun Research Institute, said: “Some countries have eradicated the disease and Germany will soon be IBR-free. However, the UK is lagging behind, possibly because we have not given it full attention because we have had other things on our minds, such as TB."

He added: “As Europe becomes more and more free from IBR, there will be more barriers rather than fewer, so now is the time to take proper steps against IBR, especially in pedigree herds. We have now got the chance to control the disease and possibly eradicate it in the UK.”

The programme consists of an initial single dose of IBR marker live vaccine at three months old, followed up six months later by either another dose of the live vaccine for a further six months' protection, or a single dose of the inactivated IBR marker vaccine for a 12-month protection period.

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.