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Iraq reports first H5N1 outbreaks in 10 years
birds
A total of 77,101 birds died and 641,498 have been culled. (stock photo)
Over 640,000 birds culled so far
 
Outbreaks of avian influenza H5N1 have been reported in Iraq for the first time in 10 years, according to a disease alert by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

Six outbreaks were reported by Dr Salah Fadhil Abbas, director general of the Veterinary Directorate, Ministry of Agriculture in Baghdad. Beginning in mid-December 2015, the last outbreak occurred in February this year.

A total of 77,101 birds died and 641,498 have been culled. The source of the outbreaks is not yet known.

Movement controls and screening are in place inside the country, as well as disinfection and disinfestation.

Official destruction of animal products and disposal of carcasses, by-products and waste, is being carried out.

Other measures being applied include traceability, quarantine, surveillance, zoning and control of wildlife reservoirs.

 

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.