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Pirbright awarded funding to tackle Asian diseases
The pig disease research will focus on viruses caused by porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) and swine influenza A.

Research to improve livestock welfare and economic production

More than £1million of funding has been awarded to The Pirbright Institute to tackle major viral diseases that threaten livestock populations in Asia.

The money, awarded by BBSRC-Newton fund, will fund research into two poultry and two pig diseases that have a detrimental impact both on animal welfare and the local economy.

Led by Dr Elma Tchilian, the pig disease research will focus on viruses caused by porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) and swine influenza A. Working with colleagues in Thailand, Dr Tchilian hopes to introduce a vaccine strategy that will benefit both animal welfare and the livelihoods of farmers.

The poultry study will be led by Dr Yongxiu Yao and Professor Munir Iqbal who will assess the diseases caused by avian leukosis virus and avian influenza viruses.

Dr Yongxiu Yao’s team will build on links with Chinese institutes through Newton Funded UK-China Centre of Excellence for Research on Avian Diseases (UK-China CERAD) to share expertise and develop strategies for controlling avian leukosis virus.

Professor Munir Iqbal will steer work to offer information about how avian influenza viruses that plague the poultry production systems of China are able to evade current vaccines and what increases the risk of human transmission.

The ultimate aim of the three projects is to improve livestock welfare and economic production, helping to ensure global food security. 

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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
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.