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Scientists create synthetic form of SBV
Schmallenberg study raises vaccine hopes

Scottish scientists have made a synthetic version of the Schmallenberg virus (SBV) in the laboratory, raising hopes for the development of a vaccine for the disease.

The synthetic version was formed so that scientists were able to study its genetics and how it infects farm animals. They manipulated the virus's genetic sequence so it was more and less severe during the study.

Experiments showed that, if the virus is passed to calves or lambs during pregnancy, it replicates itself in the brain cells and spinal cords of the unborn animals.

Massimo Palmarini and Alan Kohl led the study at the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research.

Professor Palmarini said: "This is the first time we have been able to manipulate the genome of SBV in this way. We now know much more about how the virus causes the disease than we did a couple of months ago."

SBV was first discovered in Germany in November 2011 and has since spread to the UK, via midges that were blown over from the continent. The virus is now carried by native midges, and has affected about 1,000 farms across England and Wales.

An SBV vaccine is currently undergoing tests for European approval.

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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.