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Oral badger vaccine field trial
Researchers in Ireland develop TB protection

The Republic of Ireland has begun a field trial to help develop an oral tuberculosis (TB) vaccine for badgers.

The results will allow scientists in Ireland to improve the oral vaccine, to help prevent the spread of TB to cattle. The research is being conducted alongside New Zealand, who currently use the formulations in possums.

Trials involve trapping badgers, then anaesthetising and injecting them to swallow the vaccine in a formulation. Bait is currently not being used.

Glyn Hewinson, chief scientist at the AHVLA, said: "A number of formulations are under investigation; none of them are ready for use yet.

"Although [the trial] will give proof of principle over how the vaccine might work in that formulation, it doesn't say how effective it will be in a bait.

"There is progress," he added. "But these things take a lot of time."

Scientists from the Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra), the Food an Environment Research Agency (Fera) and the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) are helping with the trial.

The results will assist scientists in developing the oral vaccine, so the Republic of Ireland can then apply for it to be licensed.

However, this is "still several years away", according to Prof Hewinson.

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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.