AHVLA simplifies bTB testing instructions
Taking effect from January 1, 2014, the AHVLA is simplifying bTB testing instructions for cattle herds affected by a new TB breakdown.
For herds in England that have their officially TB free status withdrawn (OTFW) as a result of a new TB breakdown, a minimum a two additional tuberculin (short interval) skin tests read at the "severe" interpretation will be required.
Going forward, the number and interpretation of additional short interval tests will depend on the scale of the tuberculin reaction, the post-mortem and laboratory culture results in other skin test reactors in the herd.
The AHVLA says this is not a policy change, but a clarification of existing instructions, which state that should test reactors be identified with visible lesions and/or culture-positive test results, the two additional skin tests will be required.
This requirement also applies to officially TB free status suspended (OTFS) herds that are suffering a new breakdown in the "edge of high risk" area. Should the herd require further short-interval tests following this, they will be read at the normal "standard" interpretation unless reactors show subsequent visible lesions or are culture positive.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
