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Oral badger vaccine field trial
Researchers in Ireland develop TB protection

The Republic of Ireland has begun a field trial to help develop an oral tuberculosis (TB) vaccine for badgers.

The results will allow scientists in Ireland to improve the oral vaccine, to help prevent the spread of TB to cattle. The research is being conducted alongside New Zealand, who currently use the formulations in possums.

Trials involve trapping badgers, then anaesthetising and injecting them to swallow the vaccine in a formulation. Bait is currently not being used.

Glyn Hewinson, chief scientist at the AHVLA, said: "A number of formulations are under investigation; none of them are ready for use yet.

"Although [the trial] will give proof of principle over how the vaccine might work in that formulation, it doesn't say how effective it will be in a bait.

"There is progress," he added. "But these things take a lot of time."

Scientists from the Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra), the Food an Environment Research Agency (Fera) and the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) are helping with the trial.

The results will assist scientists in developing the oral vaccine, so the Republic of Ireland can then apply for it to be licensed.

However, this is "still several years away", according to Prof Hewinson.

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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.