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SBV found in Lancashire cattle
Virus found in malformed calf

The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) has revealed that the Schmallenberg virus (SBV) has been found in cattle in Lancashire - the first time a case has been reported in the county.

SBV was found in a malformed calf, which indicates that SBV was present in early 2012, because damage to a calf follows infection early in pregnancy.

AHVLA research suggests that SBV has spread during the active midge season of the past year to cover previously unaffected areas of the UK, including parts of northern England and Wales. Sheep were tested for antibodies, which demonstrate that the animal had been infected, and were found at farms in Northumberland, North Yorkshire, Shropshire, Carmarthenshire and Powys.

Simon Hall veterinary director at AHVLA said: “These findings indicate that Schmallenberg virus has spread to previously unaffected areas during this year’s active midge seasonSimon Hall veterinary director at AHVLA said: “These findings indicate that Schmallenberg virus has spread to previously unaffected areas during this year’s active midge season."

He added: "AHVLA will continue to monitor the spread of the disease and provide information to help farmers make informed business decisions."

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.