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ASF: Serbia reports first outbreaks
So far there have been four outbreaks in Serbia since 30 July.
Over 240 pigs dead or culled on backyard farms

Serbia has reported its first outbreak of African swine fever (ASF), with four outbreaks on backyard premises.

So far there have been four outbreaks since 30 July, resulting in the deaths pf 242 pigs. Three of the outbreaks occurred in the capital Belgrade, and the fourth in a town 52 miles away, Smederevska Palanka.

The source of the outbreak is currently unknown.

ASF has spread widely across Asia, including China and Vietnam, as well as parts of central and Eastern Europe. Cases have also been seen in sub-Saharan Africa.

Slovakia confirmed its first case in July, on a backyard pig holding just a few kilometres from the border with Hungary.

It was reported last week that 130,000 pigs died or were culled in Bulgaria due to ASF outbreaks in July and August. Cases were predominantly seen in the north, north west and central northern parts of the country. Six of the outbreaks occurred on large commercial farms in northern Bulgaria, close to the border with Romania.

In its latest ASF update, the APHA said there has been a distinct rise in the number of cases in domestic pigs in Eastern Europe, predominantly in the backyard sector in Romania.

The risk level for contaminated products entering the UK remains at medium, but APHA is continually reviewing the situation.

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here

Click here for more...
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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.