Cattle keepers can now access guidance explaining how to effectively complete Bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) Check Testing
Cattle keepers can now access guidance on how to effectively complete Bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) Check Testing, in the autumn/winter 2024 issue of the Moredun magazine. As a method for keepers to comply with the BVD eradication scheme rules, the BVD Check Test is a sensitive and accurate testing method used to find out if youngstock in a cattle herd have been exposed to BVD.
Leading up to the BVD eradication scheme’s implementation, EPIC provided input to studies in a strategic research programme with SRUC and BioSS that underpinned BVD eradication work.
On 5 November 2024, focusing on the EPIC’s scientific perspectives and contributions to the BVD Eradication Scheme in Scotland, Dr George Russell, EPIC Molecular Virologist facilitated a presentation at an APHA training workshop.
George explained that EPIC’s modelling data on the outcomes of check testing was reflected in the Scottish Government’s advice that a single positive check test should be used as an early warning sign, followed by additional testing, which can be carried out by using Moredun’s Check Test explainer. Using genotyping and phylodynamics, EPIC scientists also identified chains of infection and linked strains with animal movements to inform BVD eradication rules and testing.
In addition to the quantitative data collected by EPIC, in 2017 EPIC scientists from the James Hutton Institute facilitated interviews, which found that cattle farmers had different opinions on the BVD eradication scheme.
Keepers in the north favoured a scheme that elevated the health status of Scottish cattle, while keepers in the south viewed the scheme as unnecessary due to their proximity to the border with England where animal movement is not restricted. The interviews also identified challenges with different eradication schemes across the UK and Ireland, such as ensuring compliance. The Moredun BVD Check Test explainer was created to improve farmers' understanding of BVD testing and could result in more effective compliance.
EPIC continues to provide information on the progress of the eradication scheme by collaborating with the Animal Health and Welfare Division (AHWD) of the Scottish Government on monthly BVD summary reports, which are posted on the EPIC website.
Watch George’s full presentation of the EPIC work that contributed to the BVD eradication scheme, and access the Moredun Check Test explainer for further guidance.
NFUS BVD Check Test Poster