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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.

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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.