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SBV transmission method confirmed
Midge hypothesis proven correct by Belgian scientists

Belgian scientists at the Antwerp Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITG) and the Belgian Veterinary and Agrochemical Research Centre (VAR) have proven the hypothesis that the Schmallenberg Virus (SBV) is transmitted by midges. The teams have announced their intention of publishing the findings of their research in due course.

SBV was found in three species of biting midge, specifically Culicoides dewulfi, Culicoides obsoletus and Culicoides pulicaris, which are also known to transmit the Bluetongue Virus (BTV). All three are common to the UK and Culicoides obsoletus in particular is known to be prevalent on UK farms.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) recently began to state that they "cannot rule out the possibility that domestic (local) midges may have transmitted SBV within the affected areas" in light of the likelihood that domestic midges could have become infected themselves after biting already infected animals. A full breakdown of the known spread of SBV on UK territory is available here.

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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 

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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."