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SBV ‘knowledge gaps’
EFSA calls for better understanding of disease

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has claimed there are ‘knowledge gaps’ surrounding the outbreak of the Schmallenburg virus in Europe. The EFSA has stated in a report the need for a full understanding of the disease, including its geographical spread, its origin and its impact in the herd.

The report published by the EFSA - Schmallenberg virus: Analysis of the Epidemiological Data and Assessment of Impact – was produced following the commission’s request for scientific advice on SBV.

The EFSA has recommended that to improve the possibility of future outbreaks certain data gaps need to be filled. These include SBV vector competency and other vector host transmission parameters, the distribution, density and overwintering of Culicoides, SBV host vector transmission parameters and other routes of transmission.

They also believe that host susceptibility, species range and virulence – as well as the vulnerable period during gestation – all require further investigation, as does the development and duration of post-infection immunity.

The spokesman for the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA), Adam Bealby said: “[These] knowledge gaps have been discussed and agreed at an EU level, and there is an initiative to address these through multi-disciplinary research.”

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.