Scottish BVD Results to be Unveiled

SCOTLAND, UK - NFU Scotland is inviting members from across the region to attend a meeting at which the final results of its Bovine Virus Diarrhoea (BVD) study will be revealed.

5 September 2008

2 minute read

Europe

Blood tests have been carried out across the island over the last year in a bid to determine the level of BVD. Earlier this year, the Luing Cattle Society hosted a BVD-free sale following the development, co-ordinated by NFUS, of a health declaration scheme to demonstrate that cattle being consigned to a sale have been tested for and then vaccinated against the virus.

The meeting will take place from midday on Monday 15 September at Callachally Farm, Glenforsa, Mull, and is being hosted by Hugh MacPhail. Farmers will have the opportunity to tour the farm before hearing from Jimmy Wilson, the local vet who carried out the tests and other experts including Sandy Clark and Colin MacPhail of SAC Thurso, Ruth Vernon of Intervet, Karen Tait of HiHealth, who help monitor BVD and Nigel Miller, NFUS Vice President.

NFU Scotland’s Vice President, Nigel Miller said:

“Following similar successful trials in other parts of Scotland, including Oban, NFUS decided to sponsor a testing scheme with local vet Jimmy Wilson, who screened his clients’ animals over winter and spring this year.

“The results are very interesting, as will be revealed at the meeting, however, it is clear that if Mull farmers can collaborate to keep BVD at bay through a high health status, a premium health scheme or a vaccination plant, it could prove a great marketing tool for local producers.”