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AHVLA simplifies bTB testing instructions
Requirements clarified for herds affected by new TB breakdown

Taking effect from January 1, 2014, the AHVLA is simplifying bTB testing instructions for cattle herds affected by a new TB breakdown.

For herds in England that have their officially TB free status withdrawn (OTFW) as a result of a new TB breakdown, a minimum a two additional tuberculin (short interval) skin tests read at the "severe" interpretation will be required.

Going forward, the number and interpretation of additional short interval tests will depend on the scale of the tuberculin reaction, the post-mortem and laboratory culture results in other skin test reactors in the herd.

The AHVLA says this is not a policy change, but a clarification of existing instructions, which state that should test reactors be identified with visible lesions and/or culture-positive test results, the two additional skin tests will be required.

This requirement also applies to officially TB free status suspended (OTFS) herds that are suffering a new breakdown in the "edge of high risk" area. Should the herd require further short-interval tests following this, they will be read at the normal "standard" interpretation unless reactors show subsequent visible lesions or are culture positive.

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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
New form for online veterinary medicines retailers

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has produced a new online form for retailers wishing to sell veterinary medicines on the internet.

The form replace the previous Word version and is part of the VMD's ongoing commitment to digitise its processes. Anyone retailing prescription medicines online, including POM-V, POM-VPS and NFA-VPS categories, is lawfully required to register with the VMD before trading.

The change only applies to new applicants. Retailers already listed on the VMD's Register of Online Retailers or registered under the Accredited Internet Retailer Scheme (AIRS) do not need to do anything.