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BEVA monitoring shortage of equine influenza vaccinations
"If it becomes necessary, we will collectively work to devise practical solutions for dealing with any supply difficulties" - Jim Eyre, CEO of British Equestrian.
Equine organisations preparing to quantify impact of interrupted supply.

A collaboration between the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), British Equestrian (BEF) and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has been set up to monitor interruptions to the supply of equine influenza vaccines.

Minor interruptions to the supply of vaccines have already been noted by the group, but a significant logistical issue faced by Boehringer Ingelheim has further raised the likelihood of a reduction in supplies in the months ahead. 

The group is liaising with the three vaccine manufacturers to create solutions and minimise the impact of the shortage. 

Chair of BEVA's Health and Medicines Committee, David Rendle said: “BEVA, BHA and the BEF will continue to work together with other industry and equestrian sporting bodies to manage the situation should the availability of influenza vaccines be compromised further.

“We remind all horse owners of the importance of maintaining vaccination for equine influenza but would advise they wait until as close a time as possible until their horse’s next dose is due to minimise current demand.”

Marc Laemmer, equine business head at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, said: “We are currently experiencing a European-wide supply issue relating to our equine influenza and influenza-tetanus vaccines. 

“This has been caused by unexpected issues following the implementation of a technology upgrade and is not a product or quality issue. This means that some vet practices will have difficulty obtaining sufficient influenza vaccines and there may be a shortage in the UK market. 

“We understand the importance of these vaccines to equine welfare, and we are continuing to work tirelessly to find a solution so that we can return to normal supply as soon as possible.”

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.