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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 2019-05-13
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Equine viral arteritis confirmed in Devon
“A full investigation is continuing to determine the source and possible spread of the infection." (Stock photo)
Mares and stallions ‘should be tested before breeding’
 
Defra has confirmed a case of equine viral arteritis (EVA) in a non-thoroughbred stallion on a premises in Devon.

The horse had close epidemiological links with a premises in Dorset, where the disease was confirmed in three stallions in April.

Restrictions on breeding have been placed on the affected animal to reduce the risk of disease spreading.

Chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “A full investigation is continuing to determine the source and possible spread of the infection. Owners of mares and stallions are urged to have their animals tested before they are used for breeding.

“These findings remind us that we must all be vigilant for signs of disease and follow strict biosecurity measures.”

Defra advises the following measures to prevent the spread of EVA:
  • following the Horserace Betting Levy Board Code of Practice
  • testing animals before they are used for breeding
  • considering vaccinating stallions against the disease
  • practising good biosecurity.

EVA is a notifiable disease in all stallions, and in mares that have been mated or inseminated in the previous 14 days. Any suspected cases must be reported to APHA immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services helpline on 03000 200 301. There is no risk to public health.

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Nominations open for National Cat Awards 2020

News Story 1
 UK charity Cats Protection has announced that cat owners can nominate their pets for the National Cat Awards 2020 starting today.

The awards take place annually, celebrating heart warming stories of the positive impact that cats have on their owners. Cat owners have until Thursday 12 March to submit their nominations through the Cats Protection website. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Restriction zone lifted at Suffolk chicken farm

A one-kilometre restriction zone around a commercial chicken farm in mid-Suffolk has been lifted, following the completion of surveillance testing for avian influenza H5N3 with negative results.

Some 27,000 birds on the premises were culled after a veterinary surgeon identified the disease while investigating a fall in egg production. Poultry keepers are urged to take action to reduce the risk of disease in their flock by following government advice on biosecurity.