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Fifth UK case of avian influenza confirmed
The APHA has updated its biosecurity guidance and published a new self-assessment biosecurity checklist.

Temporary control zones have been placed around the premises.

A fifth case of avian influenza has been confirmed in poultry and captive wild birds at a premises in Leicestershire.

This latest case in captive and wild birds follows the discovery of H5N8 avian influenza in Gloucestershire, Cheshire, Herefordshire and Kent.
A small number of wild birds in Gloucestershire, Devon and Dorset have also tested positive for the disease.

Temporary control zones of 3km and 10km have been placed around the premises located near Melton Mowbray. However, the pathogenicity has yet to be determined. 

Earlier this month, an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) was declared across the UK, meaning the bird keepers across England, Scotland and Wales now legally obliged to follow strict biosecurity measures. 

On Friday (20 November), the APHA updated its biosecurity guidance and published a new self-assessment biosecurity checklist for all bird keepers.

Chief veterinary officer for the UK, Christine Middlemiss, said: "Public Health England has confirmed that the risk to public health is very low and the Food Standards Agency advises that bird flu poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers.

“Whether you keep just a few birds or thousands, you are now legally required to meet enhanced biosecurity requirements and this is in your interests to do, to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease.”

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
VMD issues guidance on AVM-GSL packaging

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has shared advice on its requirements for medicines considered AVM-GSL.

The guidance explains the information that should be on the outer package, and sets out the typical maximum pack size for an AVM-GSL product. It also describes the user-friendly language, structure and phrases required on packaging and product leaflets.

AVM-GSL products do not require discussion between the purchaser and a veterinary professional. This means that clear product information is needed to support sales choices.

The information will be useful for submitting new products to the AVM-GSL category and lowering the distribution category of products from NFA-VPS to AVM-GSL.

The VMD's guidance can be accessed here.