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New rapid test for difficult-to-diagnose rabbit parasite
E.cuniculi is a microscopic parasite of the nervous system and kidneys that commonly affects rabbits.,
Horiba's POCKIT Central analyser can detect E.cuniculi in 85 minutes.

Horiba UK has launched a new rapid PCR test for domestic rabbits to detect E.cuniculi - a microsporidian parasite that is notoriously difficult to diagnose.

In a press release, the diagnostics firm said its new POCKIT Central analyser can deliver fast and accurate results within 85 minutes and supports better patient management by enabling faster treatment. 

E.cuniculi is a microscopic parasite of the nervous system and kidneys that commonly affects rabbits. Animals infected with the parasite may have paralysis, seizures, head tilt, renal insufficiency and ocular disorders. 

The new system promises to be user-friendly and can automate the PCR testing process for up to eight pathogens in a single run. 

HORIBA veterinary business manager Paul Lymer said: “We are pleased to offer the capability of PCR testing to all practitioners, with a simple process that does not require a separate area, specialist staff or facilities. With the continued addition of rapid assays such as E. cuniculi to its wide range of tests, POCKIT Central’s ‘sample in, result out’ technology enables veterinary teams to work more efficiently and enhance patient care.”

Further information is available at horiba.com

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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.