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Digital service to help tackle animal disease
Laptop
Selected veterinary practices have tested the online service to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Online resource to replace old paper-based method

An online testing service for vets has been launched by the APHA to help tackle farm animal disease.

Launched on Friday (15 July), the Animal Disease Testing Service is set to save vets time, support earlier diagnosis of diseases and improve access to sample results.

APHA say that this will allow them to receive vital disease information faster, and help vets to support their farm clients.

"Our new digital service will help vets detect and control disease faster by speeding up the process of sending on-farm samples to the APHA labs," explains UK chief veterinary officer, Nigel Gibbens.

"We've also revamped the way APHA records and releases results back to vets, so APHA laboratories can provide a speedier, more efficient and more responsive service."

The new service, which will ultimately replace the old paper-based method, has been launched in beta. This means that APHA will closely monitor user feedback and behaviour to drive ongoing enhancements and improvements. 

APHA say that the service has been designed around the needs of vets, and has been tested by selected veterinary practices to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Vets who wish to register for the new digital service can do so by visiting GOV.UK. Alternatively, vets can email AnimalDiseaseTesting@apha.gsi.gov.uk or contact the Veterinary Investigation Centre.
















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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. 

Click here for more...
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.