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Swine flu becoming 'harder to diagnose'
pig
Laboratory tests are crucial for the precise identification of the viruses.
Experts discuss disease in European pig populations

Diagnosis of swine flu from clinical signs has become increasingly difficult in recent years due to the change in the course of the disease. As a result, laboratory tests are crucial, delegates were told at a recent meeting in Germany.

Experts from the UK, Denmark, France, Spain, Poland, The Netherlands and Germany gathered at the meeting organised by IDT Biologika. They met to discuss swine flu in European pig populations.

It was accepted at the meeting that the disease cannot be easily diagnosed by the 'clinical eye' or clinical experience alone.

Infections occur throughout the year and multiple sub-types can be isolated on single farms. Laboratory tests, including the HI (haemagglutination inhibition) and PCR (polymerase chain reaction), are crucial for the precise identification of the viruses.

Infected sows may experience reduced reproductive performance, with a "high economic impact" for farmers, said Professor Markowska-Daniel from Poland.

IDT's Dr Silke Wacheck added: "Pigs play an important role in the epidemiology of influenza A viruses since they can act as a ‘mixing vessel’. Influenza viruses are prone to genetic variability and pigs are susceptible to pig, human and avian viruses."

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RUMA CA&E extends survey deadline

News Story 1
 RUMA CA&E has extended the deadline for its online survey into vaccine availability.

Vets, SQPs, retailers and wholesalers will now have until Friday, 26 September at 5pm to submit their response.

The survey aims to further understanding into the vaccine supply challenges faced by the sector. It will also consider the short and long term impacts of disruption issues.

Insights are anonymous, and will be shared with industry stakeholders and government bodies.

The survey can be accessed here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Dechra launches checklist for veterinary sustainability

Global animal health specialist Dechra has announced the world's first Veterinary Green Theatre Checklist (VGTC) to help make surgery more sustainable.

Endorsed by leading veterinary organisations, including the BEVA, BVNA and RCVS Knowledge, the checklist is designed to reduce the environmental footprint of veterinary care, while supporting better animal health outcomes.

The checklist was launched at the World Congress of Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia in Paris and will be followed by an internal training and awareness campaign. For more information, visit dechra.com