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Digital service to help tackle animal disease
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Selected veterinary practices have tested the online service to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Online resource to replace old paper-based method

An online testing service for vets has been launched by the APHA to help tackle farm animal disease.

Launched on Friday (15 July), the Animal Disease Testing Service is set to save vets time, support earlier diagnosis of diseases and improve access to sample results.

APHA say that this will allow them to receive vital disease information faster, and help vets to support their farm clients.

"Our new digital service will help vets detect and control disease faster by speeding up the process of sending on-farm samples to the APHA labs," explains UK chief veterinary officer, Nigel Gibbens.

"We've also revamped the way APHA records and releases results back to vets, so APHA laboratories can provide a speedier, more efficient and more responsive service."

The new service, which will ultimately replace the old paper-based method, has been launched in beta. This means that APHA will closely monitor user feedback and behaviour to drive ongoing enhancements and improvements. 

APHA say that the service has been designed around the needs of vets, and has been tested by selected veterinary practices to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Vets who wish to register for the new digital service can do so by visiting GOV.UK. Alternatively, vets can email AnimalDiseaseTesting@apha.gsi.gov.uk or contact the Veterinary Investigation Centre.
















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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.