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More avian flu cases confirmed in France
hens
Sampling at farms in Dordogne revealed highly pathogenic avian influenza strains at two farms.
Number of outbreaks rises to three
 
Two further cases of avian influenza have been detected in south-west France, the ministry for agriculture has confirmed.

The first outbreak of the H5N1 strain was reported on 24 November. It was the country's first case since 2007 and involved a backyard flock of 32 hens in Dordogne.

France immediately activated its national health emergency response plan. Protection and surveillance zones were established around the barnyard and samples were taken from other farms in Dordogne, despite there being no clinical signs or mortalities.

The results of these samples revealed highly pathogenic avian influenza strains at two farms. Detailed sequencing is now being carried out by the National Agency Risk Assessment (Anses).

According to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), three goslings were found dead at a goose and duck farm in Domme. Three more goslings were culled for analysis and one sample tested positive for H2N2. In total, 1,337 susceptible birds have been culled.

A 3km and 10km zoning around the outbreak has been established.

According to Farmers Weekly, the other affected location is a duck farm in Saint-Paul-la-Roche.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.