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Fifth UK case of avian influenza confirmed
The APHA has updated its biosecurity guidance and published a new self-assessment biosecurity checklist.

Temporary control zones have been placed around the premises.

A fifth case of avian influenza has been confirmed in poultry and captive wild birds at a premises in Leicestershire.

This latest case in captive and wild birds follows the discovery of H5N8 avian influenza in Gloucestershire, Cheshire, Herefordshire and Kent.
A small number of wild birds in Gloucestershire, Devon and Dorset have also tested positive for the disease.

Temporary control zones of 3km and 10km have been placed around the premises located near Melton Mowbray. However, the pathogenicity has yet to be determined. 

Earlier this month, an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) was declared across the UK, meaning the bird keepers across England, Scotland and Wales now legally obliged to follow strict biosecurity measures. 

On Friday (20 November), the APHA updated its biosecurity guidance and published a new self-assessment biosecurity checklist for all bird keepers.

Chief veterinary officer for the UK, Christine Middlemiss, said: "Public Health England has confirmed that the risk to public health is very low and the Food Standards Agency advises that bird flu poses a very low food safety risk for UK consumers.

“Whether you keep just a few birds or thousands, you are now legally required to meet enhanced biosecurity requirements and this is in your interests to do, to protect your birds from this highly infectious disease.”

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

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News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.