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SBV – more cases confirmed
AHVLA confirms more cases

The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) has confirmed that the Schmallenberg Virus (SBV) has been detected on more UK farms. The total known count now stands at 254 cases, of which 35 were in cattle and 219 were in sheep. No cases have been detected in any other species in UK territory and the latest cases were all detected in areas previously known to be at risk.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has noted that the number of new detected cases has risen at a slower rate than was previously the case, which is consistent with reports from other EU Member States where SBV has been detected and has been attributed to the conclusion of lambing season. However, it is likely that another sharp rise in cases will occur during calving season in early summer in light of the estimated time of infection late last year.

Veterinary Surgeons who would like further information or guidance on the SBV are advised to contact their nearest AHVLA Laboratory in England and Wales or their nearest SAC Disease Surveillance Centre in Scotland. Guidelines on recommended hygiene precautions can also be found on the DEFRA website.

A full breakdown of the number and locations of the cases can be found at the AHVLA website.

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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

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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.