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Bacteria transmission 'easier than previously thought'
rabbit
Findings suggest that ST121 is likely to have jumped from humans to rabbits around 40 years ago.
Study finds one genetic mutation allows bacteria to jump species

New research suggests it may be far easier than previously thought for bacteria to jump from one host species to another.

Scientists from the universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh discovered that a single genetic mutation in a strain of bacteria allowed it to jump species and become infectious to rabbits as well as humans.

The team say their findings have "major implications" for the way we assess the risk of bacterial infections that can pass between animals and humans.

While it is well known that it takes relatively few mutations for viruses to be transmitted from one species to another, it was previously thought that this process was far more complicated for bacteria.

Jose Penades from the University of Glasgow, who co-led the study, said: "The ability for pathogens to switch host-species and lead to an epidemic in a new host population is of major concern to veterinary and public health professionals.

"Our results represent a paradigm shift in understanding of the minimal adaptions required for a bacterium to overcome species barriers and establish in new host populations."

Scientists studied the genetic make-up of Staphylococcus aureus ST121, which has caused widespread epidemics on rabbit farms globally.

ST121 is usually harmless but can cause serious skin infections in rabbits and a range of conditions in humans, including minor skin infections, meningitis and sepsis. It is found on the skin and in the respiratory tract of some people.

Findings published in Nature Genetics, suggest that ST121 is likely to have jumped from humans to rabbits around 40 years ago. A single genetic mutation in the bacterial DNA code was found to have been responsible.

Ross Fitzgerald from the University of Edinburgh's Roslin Institute, who co-led the study, said: "This latest research has important public and veterinary health implications which will require a re-examination of the future threat posed by bacterial host switching events."

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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.