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FVE welcomes PHC for Campylobacter spp.
Effective PHC must be combined with interventions on poultry farms, such as improved biosecurity measures and rapid testing of flocks.
Calls for EU to agree PHC at slaughterhouse level
 
The Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) has welcomed the introduction of process hygiene criterion (PHC) for Campylobacter spp. for poultry carcasses.

FVE is now calling for EU policy makers to agree upon a PHC at slaughterhouse level that will benefit the poultry market in the EU and increase protection for consumers.

Veterinary interventions to control Salmonella spp. - particularly in poultry flocks - alongside the use of microbiological criteria, resulted in a 44 per cent reduction in human salmonellosis cases within the European Union from 2008-2014.

FVE believes a similar approach could be used to reduce contamination from Campylobacter spp. in poultry, with major control measures at farm level, good hygienic practices (GHPs), hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) programmes and the adoption of a PHC at slaughterhouse level.

Effective PHC must be combined with interventions on poultry farms, such as improved biosecurity measures and rapid testing of flocks, the federation added.

Consumer awareness campaigns on hygienic handling, preparation and consumption of meat is also key. Epidemiological data suggest 20-30 per cent of human cases of campylobacteriosis are linked with cross-contamination of food in the home.

FVE has made three recommendations to EU policy makers:
  1. A PHC at slaughterhouse level which will benefit the EU poultry market and increase consumers' protection
  2. Regulate the implementation of Harmonised Epidemiological Indicators for Campylobacter spp., in particular the pathogen testing at farm level whose results will lead to the risk categorisation of poultry flocks
  3. Reinforce awareness among consumers on hygiene and handling practices of poultry meat and products at home

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New roadshow brings free flea and tick checks to dog owners

News Story 1
 A nationwide roadshow offering free, personalised parasite risk assessments and flea and tick checks will be visiting popular dog events across the UK.

The All About Dogs shows in Norfolk and Knebworth, will be among the first events to host MSD Animal Health's Big Parasite Check campaign, which aims to address common misconceptions and highlight the importance of year-round parasite protection.

A total of six dog-friendly events will feature the free clinics from summer through to winter. Full roadshow dates and locations are available on The Big Parasite Check map or through your local MSD Animal Health Representative.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'