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.
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

New rapid test for difficult-to-diagnose rabbit parasite
E.cuniculi is a microscopic parasite of the nervous system and kidneys that commonly affects rabbits.,
Horiba's POCKIT Central analyser can detect E.cuniculi in 85 minutes.

Horiba UK has launched a new rapid PCR test for domestic rabbits to detect E.cuniculi - a microsporidian parasite that is notoriously difficult to diagnose.

In a press release, the diagnostics firm said its new POCKIT Central analyser can deliver fast and accurate results within 85 minutes and supports better patient management by enabling faster treatment. 

E.cuniculi is a microscopic parasite of the nervous system and kidneys that commonly affects rabbits. Animals infected with the parasite may have paralysis, seizures, head tilt, renal insufficiency and ocular disorders. 

The new system promises to be user-friendly and can automate the PCR testing process for up to eight pathogens in a single run. 

HORIBA veterinary business manager Paul Lymer said: “We are pleased to offer the capability of PCR testing to all practitioners, with a simple process that does not require a separate area, specialist staff or facilities. With the continued addition of rapid assays such as E. cuniculi to its wide range of tests, POCKIT Central’s ‘sample in, result out’ technology enables veterinary teams to work more efficiently and enhance patient care.”

Further information is available at horiba.com

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

Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.