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WOAH monitoring zoonotic spread of mpox
Mpox is caused by the Orthopoxvirus MPXV.
Members are asked to report cases of MPXV.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has called for its members to report cases of monkeypox virus (MPXV) in animals to help it monitor the spreading novel mpox strain.

The World Health Organization has declared the current surge in mpox as a ‘public health emergency of international concern’, with cases increasing in African countries and beyond.

However, although mpox appears to be spreading among humans, the virus’ zoonotic origins have prompted WOAH to also monitor animal health.

Mpox, which was first seen in 1958, is caused by the Orthopoxvirus MPXV. Prevalent in West and Central Africa, MPXV has been found in rodents, primates, humans and other mammals.

Clinical signs of MPXV can include skin lesions, scabs, fever and swollen lymph nodes in both animals and humans. However, in some cases, there are no clinical signs.

MPXV can be transmitted from animals to humans, as well as from humans to animals.

There have been no recent reports of MPXV clade 1b in animals, and it is not a listed disease. However, WOAH has asked its members to inform them if they identify MPXV in animals and take appropriate risk mitigation methods.

WOAH asks that its members consider mpox as a differential disease in animals which show clinical signs compatible with the disease and that have been exposed to human cases.

As well as informing WOAH, members should use a One Health approach by maintaining communication between wildlife services, veterinary services and public health services.

The public should use appropriate hygiene and biosecurity measures around animals which have been in contact with probable mpox cases. They should wash hands regularly, wear personal protective equipment, and avoid animals found sick or deceased in endemic areas.

WOAH has produced resources and guidance to support members with reducing mpox risk in animals.

Image © Shutterstock

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

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.