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Digital service to help tackle animal disease
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Selected veterinary practices have tested the online service to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Online resource to replace old paper-based method

An online testing service for vets has been launched by the APHA to help tackle farm animal disease.

Launched on Friday (15 July), the Animal Disease Testing Service is set to save vets time, support earlier diagnosis of diseases and improve access to sample results.

APHA say that this will allow them to receive vital disease information faster, and help vets to support their farm clients.

"Our new digital service will help vets detect and control disease faster by speeding up the process of sending on-farm samples to the APHA labs," explains UK chief veterinary officer, Nigel Gibbens.

"We've also revamped the way APHA records and releases results back to vets, so APHA laboratories can provide a speedier, more efficient and more responsive service."

The new service, which will ultimately replace the old paper-based method, has been launched in beta. This means that APHA will closely monitor user feedback and behaviour to drive ongoing enhancements and improvements. 

APHA say that the service has been designed around the needs of vets, and has been tested by selected veterinary practices to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Vets who wish to register for the new digital service can do so by visiting GOV.UK. Alternatively, vets can email AnimalDiseaseTesting@apha.gsi.gov.uk or contact the Veterinary Investigation Centre.
















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Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife

News Story 1
 The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.

The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.

Those taking part are being asked to try to raise £100 each to support the work of the charity.

Details about how to take part can be found here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Bluetongue low vector period ends

In an update to its bluetongue guidance, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced that the seasonal low vector period for the disease has ended.

With winter over, Defra is planning for a possible increase in cases as midges become more active. It has warned that farms along the east coast of England from Norfolk to Kent, and along the south coast from Kent to Devon, are at highest risk from infected midges blown over from northern Europe.

Since the virus was detected in England in November 2023, there have been 126 confirmed cases. The most recent case to be confirmed was on 1 March 2024.

Farmers are asked to continue to frequently monitor their livestock and ensure their animals and land are registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency.