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BSE testing rules set to relax
Proposals reflect decreasing risk of mad cow disease

Requirements to test meat for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), otherwise known as mad cow disease, may be relaxed from January 1, 2013.

The proposal, which is set to be implemented across 25 EU member states, reflects the decreasing risk of BSE. The European Food Safety Authority advised that testing only animals deemed at risk would "easily meet the international standard regarding the sensitivity of BSE surveillance systems".

The Department for Food, Environment and Rural Health (Defra) estimates that the change will save England and Wales' fresh meat industry around £3 million and the government around £800,000 per year.

BSE cases have been declining in recent years, in comparison to 1992, when the number of reported cases peaked at 37,000. In 2011, seven cases were confirmed in fallen cattle, and only two so far this year. No cases have been detected in healthy slaughtered cattle for three years in the UK.

Other implemented measures, including the removal of Specific Risk Material and animal feed controls that designed to prevent the spread of disease, are to remain in place.

Consultation will run until December 5. Defra ministers will seek advice from the Food Standards Agency and health ministers, then vote at the December meeting of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health (SCoFCAH).

A Defra spokesperson said: "These proposals from the EU reflect the decreasing risk of BSE and will decrease burdens for industry. The key measures to protect public health are unaffected by this change, and there will be no increase in risk to customers."

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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
BSAVA publishes fifth Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology

The BSAVA has published the fifth edition of its BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology.

The new edition has been reviewed and updated, including new developments in diagnostics, therapeutic approaches and clinical decision-making. It is structured to support clinicians through diagnosis, treatment and long-term management.

The guide features five new chapters covering acute myelopathies, chronic myelopathies, emergency protocols, neurotoxicology and neuro-oncology.

It also includes over 100 videos, including demonstrations of neurological examinations, clinical presentations and diagnostic procedures.

Nicola Lloyd, publishing manager, said: "Whether you're a general practitioner seeking practical guidance, or a specialist aiming to refine your expertise, this edition remains an indispensable reference for anyone involved in the care of neurologically compromised dogs and cats."