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Schmallenberg vaccine approved
UK farmers first to gain access to vaccine

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has announced that UK farmers will be the first in the EU to gain access to a vaccine against schmallenberg (SBV) virus.

Pharmaceutical company MSD Animal Health has been issued a licence to provide the vaccine known as "Bovilis SBV".

When Bovilis SBV becomes available this summer, cattle and sheep will be able to have the vaccination before they become pregnant, protecting the foetus from damage caused by SBV.

News of the vaccine has been welcomed by the British Veterinary Association (BVA). President Peter Jones, said: "Given the serious worry that this new disease has caused and the significant losses that individual farmers have faced, the news that a vaccine is now available should be warmly welcomed.
 
"Farmers can now plan with good veterinary advice how, where and when to use the vaccine to protect their animals and their offspring."

News of the vaccine was reported in the media in February, when the VMD confirmed that MSD had applied for provisional marketing authorisation at the end of August 2012.

The VMD is usually unable to comment on applications it has received but the exception was made due to the high levels of industry and media interest in a possible vaccine.

Bovilis SBV will be available across the UK from summer 2013.

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

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News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.