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Viruses could be used to treat pig infections
pigs
Antibiotic resistance has prompted renewed interest in using phages to treat bacteria.
Leicester research will focus on Brachyspira and Salmonella

New research will investigate bacteriophages, or 'friendly' viruses, that could be used to treat Brachyspira and Salmonella in pigs.

Lead author Martha Clokie from the University of Leicester discussed her upcoming work at the BPEX Innovation Conference.

“In our work in humans we’ve been able to use certain viruses to treat the gut bacterium Clostridium difficile," she explained.

"Plus, because of the phages’ specificity, they can also be used to diagnose which bacteria are causing active infection."

While this method of treating bacteria has been in use for 100 years, rising concerns about antibiotic resistance have prompted a renewed interest in the subject.

“Originally, the specificity of bacteriophages was seen as a challenge and the broad spectrum of antibiotics made them the favoured option when they were discovered," Prof Clokie continued.

"However, bacteriophages are highly specific to their host and only bind to and infect those bacteria. Because of this, they won’t damage the whole flora of the gut which makes them a valuable alternative option to antibiotics."

In future, Prof Clokie says they could be used on-farm or even in abattoirs to reduce carcase contamination. 

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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
BSAVA publishes fifth Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology

The BSAVA has published the fifth edition of its BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology.

The new edition has been reviewed and updated, including new developments in diagnostics, therapeutic approaches and clinical decision-making. It is structured to support clinicians through diagnosis, treatment and long-term management.

The guide features five new chapters covering acute myelopathies, chronic myelopathies, emergency protocols, neurotoxicology and neuro-oncology.

It also includes over 100 videos, including demonstrations of neurological examinations, clinical presentations and diagnostic procedures.

Nicola Lloyd, publishing manager, said: "Whether you're a general practitioner seeking practical guidance, or a specialist aiming to refine your expertise, this edition remains an indispensable reference for anyone involved in the care of neurologically compromised dogs and cats."