Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 22nd May 2018
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

TB test accepted for ‘exceptional private use’
Actiphage is a six-hour test that can identify the presence of live mycobacteria in blood or milk samples.
BVA welcomes move that could improve testing accuracy

A novel test for bovine TB that is more sensitive than previous methods has been accepted for ‘exceptional private use’ in England.

Actiphage is a six-hour test that can identify the presence of live mycobacteria in blood or milk samples. The currently approved skin test for bovine TB assesses the animal’s response to the bacteria and results take 72 hours.

Under the new ‘exceptional private use’ protocol, Actiphage can be used on a small number of large, persistently-infected herds. Before it can be given the go-ahead for veterinary use, however, it will need to go through further trials.

The news has been welcomed by the British Veterinary Association (BVA). BVA president John Fishwick said:

“We welcome any test that could improve the accuracy of diagnosing bovine TB and it is heartening to hear that this new test could potentially provide quicker, more convenient results.

“With any TB test, it is absolutely crucial that its sensitivity, specify and performance are fully understood and it is reassuring that the Animal and Plant Health Agency have authorised the exceptional private use of this test to it will be used appropriately at this stage of its development.

“TB testing is an important tool that can help achieve the long-term goal of TB eradication and must be part of a comprehensive toolkit of measures.”

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA publishes fifth Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology

The BSAVA has published the fifth edition of its BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology.

The new edition has been reviewed and updated, including new developments in diagnostics, therapeutic approaches and clinical decision-making. It is structured to support clinicians through diagnosis, treatment and long-term management.

The guide features five new chapters covering acute myelopathies, chronic myelopathies, emergency protocols, neurotoxicology and neuro-oncology.

It also includes over 100 videos, including demonstrations of neurological examinations, clinical presentations and diagnostic procedures.

Nicola Lloyd, publishing manager, said: "Whether you're a general practitioner seeking practical guidance, or a specialist aiming to refine your expertise, this edition remains an indispensable reference for anyone involved in the care of neurologically compromised dogs and cats."