UK: Bovine viral diarrhea figures recorded at an all-time low in Northern Ireland

The number of living BVD positive animals in Northern Ireland is at its lowest since an industry eradication programme began in 2016, figures show. Animal Health and Welfare Northern Ireland (AHWNI) has released the figures, highlighting that the livestock industry is moving in the right direction. Currently, only a small number of BVD positives are being retained on-farm for more than four weeks. The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) said farmers should be 'commended for their efforts' in reducing bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD). A highly contagious disease, BVD is one of the most common and costly affecting cattle in Europe. Infection can result in a wide range of clinical signs including, reproductive problems, including failure to conceive, abortion and birth defects. UFU deputy president, John McLenaghan said the figures from AHWNI were "testament to the ongoing focus that farmers and industry stakeholders are putting on eradicating BVD in NI". "The vast majority of affected farmers ...