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WSAVA announces new chair of Vaccination Guidelines Group
"I am grateful for the trust of the VGG and look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to further advance the mission of the WSAVA" - Dr Mary Marcondes
Brazilian vet Dr Mary Marcondes takes over the role.

Dr Mary Marcondes has been announced as the new chair of The World Small Animal Veterinary Association's (WSAVA’s) Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG). She succeeds Dr Richard Squires, who is remaining a member of the VGG.

Dr Marcondes is a Brazilian veterinarian who qualified at the University of São Paulo, and subsequently completed a residency there in small animal internal medicine and surgery. She holds an MSc and PhD in clinical veterinary science, and has held postdoctoral positions in infectious diseases at the University of São Paulo Medical School, and the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California. 

She went on to spend 26 years working for São Paulo State University (UNESP) before retiring as an associate professor of small animal internal medicine and infectious diseases.

The VGG is a team of experts from around the world who are focused on providing evidence-based scientific advice to the global veterinary profession on optimum practice for dogs and cats.

The latest version of peer-reviewed WSAVA Global Guidelines on Vaccination for veterinarians is due to be released during the WSAVA World Congress 2023 which is being held in Lisbon, Portugal this September. 

Dr Ellen van Nierop, WSAVA president, said: “VGG Guidelines are transforming vaccination practice around the world and we are grateful for the huge contribution that Dr Marcondes has already made to the VGG. We are delighted to welcome her to the new role of VGG Chair and look forward to working with her and the rest of the team as it starts this new chapter.” 

Dr Marcondes said: “I am deeply honoured to have the opportunity to continue the important work initiated by Professor Michael Day and Dr Richard Squires. It is a privilege to carry forward their vision. This position carries immense importance as it allows me to contribute to the wellbeing of small companion animals on a global scale. I am grateful for the trust of the VGG and look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to further advance the mission of the WSAVA to advance the health and welfare of companion animals worldwide through an educated, committed and collaborative global community of veterinary peers.”

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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.