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AHVLA simplifies bTB testing instructions
Requirements clarified for herds affected by new TB breakdown

Taking effect from January 1, 2014, the AHVLA is simplifying bTB testing instructions for cattle herds affected by a new TB breakdown.

For herds in England that have their officially TB free status withdrawn (OTFW) as a result of a new TB breakdown, a minimum a two additional tuberculin (short interval) skin tests read at the "severe" interpretation will be required.

Going forward, the number and interpretation of additional short interval tests will depend on the scale of the tuberculin reaction, the post-mortem and laboratory culture results in other skin test reactors in the herd.

The AHVLA says this is not a policy change, but a clarification of existing instructions, which state that should test reactors be identified with visible lesions and/or culture-positive test results, the two additional skin tests will be required.

This requirement also applies to officially TB free status suspended (OTFS) herds that are suffering a new breakdown in the "edge of high risk" area. Should the herd require further short-interval tests following this, they will be read at the normal "standard" interpretation unless reactors show subsequent visible lesions or are culture positive.

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Strangles survey seeks views of horse owners

News Story 1
 With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.

The survey, which has been designed by Dechra, aims to raise awareness of Strangles and promote best practices to prevent its transmission. It includes questions about horse owners' experiences of strangles, together with preventative measures and vaccination.

Respondents to the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win two VIP tickets to Your Horse Live 2025. To access the survey, click here 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Vivienne Mackinnon elected BVA Scottish Branch President

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has elected Vivienne Mackinnon as its new BVA Scottish Branch president.

Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.

In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.

Dr Mackinnon said: "I look forward to working with colleagues across the veterinary professions to improve animal health and welfare in the country and support veterinary workplaces."