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Iraq reports first H5N1 outbreaks in 10 years
birds
A total of 77,101 birds died and 641,498 have been culled. (stock photo)
Over 640,000 birds culled so far
 
Outbreaks of avian influenza H5N1 have been reported in Iraq for the first time in 10 years, according to a disease alert by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

Six outbreaks were reported by Dr Salah Fadhil Abbas, director general of the Veterinary Directorate, Ministry of Agriculture in Baghdad. Beginning in mid-December 2015, the last outbreak occurred in February this year.

A total of 77,101 birds died and 641,498 have been culled. The source of the outbreaks is not yet known.

Movement controls and screening are in place inside the country, as well as disinfection and disinfestation.

Official destruction of animal products and disposal of carcasses, by-products and waste, is being carried out.

Other measures being applied include traceability, quarantine, surveillance, zoning and control of wildlife reservoirs.

 

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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.