Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Institutes to develop foot-and-mouth diagnostic kits
cattle farm
"Our partnership will help to ensure improved diagnostics for FMD are easily available - not just in the UK and Europe, but across the rest of the world too."

Pirbright partners with Italian research institute

Cutting edge diagnostic kits for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD)will be produced by the Pirbright Institute and the leading Italian research institute for animal disease, IZSLER.

The institutes have signed an international partnership agreement, which is the latest development in a long-term collaboration.

Their joint programme of research is focused on the development of new diagnostic tools for virus diseases in animals.

Dr Michel de Baar, Pirbright's director of business development, said: "This important agreement combines the expertise of both institutes to produce future-proofed kits that are able to provide even more accurate and rapid diagnostics for those using them in the veterinary community.

"Our partnership will help to ensure improved diagnostics for FMD are easily available - not just in the UK and Europe, but across the rest of the world too."

IZSLER will manufacture the kits, which have been evaluated for excellent reliability and sensitivity. Kits will be sold by IZSLER, Pirbright and their distributors, with revenue being reinvested into animal disease research.


Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.