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NPA warns of impact of pig vaccine shortages
More antibiotics are being used in response to a vaccine shortages.
The shortages are leading to increased antibiotic usage.

The National Pig Association (NPA) has highlighted the impact that vaccine shortages are having on the pig farming sector.

It warns that continued availability issues may be resulting in an increase in antibiotic use on pig farms.

Disruptions in the supply of vaccines is said to have been going on for a year. This may be attributed to a number of reasons, including recalls, failed batches and too few importations into Great Britain.

With an estimated ten per cent of veterinary vaccines produced in the UK, it is reported that other parts of the world will also be seeing the impact.

The NPA believes that the vaccine production issues may be a result of a diversion of vaccine manufacturing priorities to Covid and other diseases. As well as limiting space in vaccine manufacturing schedules, this may also cause a shortage of supplies such as vaccine bottles.

The schedules are also impacted by the short shelf lives of the vaccines, which can make cold storage and transport problematic.

The vaccine shortages are believed to be a contributor to an increase in antibiotic use, with more antibiotics being used in place of the vaccine. In autumn 2024, data from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and Veterinary Antimicrobial Resistance and Sales (VARSS) showed that there had been an 18 per cent increase in antibiotic use between 2022 and 2023.

The NPA says that it will be reporting the impact of the vaccine shortage back to pharmaceutical companies and the government.

It also says that the vaccine shortage, and its impact on antibiotic use, may be difficult to resolve. It says that it will require a collaborative effort from livestock industries, government and pharmaceutical companies to tackle the issue.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.