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Collaborative strategy to eradicate TB in England
Sick person in hospital
"Our goal is to eliminate TB as a public health problem."
PHE and NHS announce action plan to tackle high rates of TB

NHS England and Public Health England (PHE) are to invest £11.5 million as part of a joint initiative to reduce TB cases and ultimately eliminate TB as a public health problem in the country.

There were over 7,000 TB cases reported in England during 2013 - a staggering 13.5 cases per 100,000 of the population. The UK has the second highest rate of TB among Western European countries, and rates are almost five times higher than in the US.

Public Health minister Jane Ellison, said: "This strategy is a significant step forward in helping us to control and reduce cases of TB, which still affects thousands of people in England every year.

"It will target those most vulnerable to TB by improving access to screening, diagnostic and treatment services as well as innovative outreach programmes such as the ‘Find & Treat’ mobile health units. Last year I saw the first of these fantastic units at work and am delighted that the team launched their second mobile health unit earlier today."

The TB strategy was developed following a three month consultation which included responses from over 100 different stakeholders. The 10-point action plan will include improving access and early diagnosis, better treatment, diagnostic and care services, tackling TB in under-served groups and improved screening and treatment of new migrants for latent TB infection.

Professor Sir Bruce Keogh, NHS England’s medical director, said: "This is an important strategy which is why NHS England is committing £10 million towards tackling the high rates of TB incidence in England. This money will focus on TB screening and any subsequent treatment. Our goal is to eliminate TB as a public health problem."

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA announces 12th Edition of the Small Animal Formulary

The BSAVA has published an updated edition of its Small Animal Formulary, which includes new drug monographs and emergency drug doses for rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles.

One of BSAVA's most trusted and widely used clinical resources, this 12th edition of the manual also includes seven new client information leaflets and information on drugs used for the management of urinary incontinence.

Part A of the Formulary, Canine and Feline, sees Fergus Allerton return as Editor-in-Chief, while Part B: Exotic Pets was edited by Joanna Hedley. For more information, visit the BSAVA website.