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Schmallenberg vaccine approved
UK farmers first to gain access to vaccine

 The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has announced that UK farmers will be the first in the EU to gain access to a vaccine against schmallenberg (SBV) virus.

Pharmaceutical company MSD Animal Health has been issued a licence to provide the vaccine known as "Bovilis SBV".

When Bovilis SBV becomes available this summer, cattle and sheep will be able to have the vaccination before they become pregnant, protecting the foetus from damage caused by SBV.

News of the vaccine has been welcomed by the British Veterinary Association (BVA). President Peter Jones, said: "Given the serious worry that this new disease has caused and the significant losses that individual farmers have faced, the news that a vaccine is now available should be warmly welcomed.
 
"Farmers can now plan with good veterinary advice how, where and when to use the vaccine to protect their animals and their offspring."

News of the vaccine was reported in the media in February, when the VMD confirmed that MSD had applied for provisional marketing authorisation at the end of August 2012.

The VMD is usually unable to comment on applications it has received but the exception was made due to the high levels of industry and media interest in a possible vaccine.

Bovilis SBV will be available across the UK from summer 2013.

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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.