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African swine fever 'spreading slowly'
wild boar
African swine fever was identified in Lithuania and eastern Poland in early 2014, and subsequently in Latvia and Estonia.
Report defines outbreaks as a ‘small-scale epidemic’
 
African swine fever is ‘spreading slowly’ in the Baltic countries and Poland, according to a new report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

The latest epidemiological data shows the disease is spreading at a rate of around 2km a month in Latvia and Estonia, and 1km a month in Lithuania and Poland.

In addition, the number of infected animals found among hunted wild boar is very low (up to three per cent). Therefore, the outbreaks in the Baltic countries and Poland can be defined as a ‘small-scale epidemic’, EFSA said.

African swine fever was identified in Lithuania and eastern Poland in early 2014, and subsequently in Latvia and Estonia. No additional member states have reported cases since then.

Andrea Gervelmeyer, a veterinary epidemiologist at EFSA, commented: “This report is the outcome of a fruitful cooperation with Member States. We look forward to continuing investigations on this disease, which has serious socio-economic consequences in affected countries.”

A second report will be published in autumn 2017, providing updated analysis and a review of the management options for wild boar.

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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.