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SARS may have originated in bats, study finds
Chinese horseshoe bats responsible for pandemic, scientists say

New research published in the journal, Nature, has confirmed horseshoe bats in China as the origin of the SARS-CoV pandemic in 2002-3.

During the pandemic, 774 of the 8094 people around the world who became infected were killed by the virus.

While researchers have previously shown that bats are natural reservoirs for SARS-like coronaviruses (CoV), they have never before been confirmed as the virus' origin.

A research team led by Professor Shi Zhengli from the Wuham Institute of Virology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, isolated a SARS-like CoV from the faecal samples of Chinese horseshoe bats.

According to scientists, these bats have an important ecological role and are found around the globe.

Researchers say their findings will help governments design more effective prevention strategies for SARS and similar epidemics.

In addition, insights into the role of horseshoe bats in transmitting SARS-CoV highlight the importance of protecting this species natural environment, ensuring that they are not forced into highly populated urban areas for food.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.