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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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Annual submission deadline small pet animal exemptions

News Story 1
 Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.

Submitting this annual return ensures continued compliance with regulatory requirements for products marketed without a full Marketing Authorisation. The exemption specifically applies to products intended for animals, cage birds, terrarium animals, small rodents, ferrets and rabbits.

For further details and submission guidelines, visit the gov.uk website.  

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News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'