Local farmers convened at Padbrook Park Hotel for a crucial event focused on addressing the ongoing challenge of bovine tuberculosis (TB) in the region. The evening was organized by the Vale Veterinary Group and Blackdown Farm Vets, drawing a significant turnout of industry professionals and stakeholders.

Keynote speakers included Sarah Tomlinson of the TB Advisory Service, Juan Jose Velarde from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), and Tom Rabbetts, head of Bovine TB at the National Farmers Union (NFU). The discussions centered around the latest strategies and tools available to combat this persistent agricultural problem.

Lucy Morgan from Blackdown Farm Vets highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting, "England has the highest level of bovine TB in Europe, costing the taxpayer approximately £100 million annually." She also emphasized the profound impact of TB outbreaks on farm profitability, sustainability, and the mental health of those involved.

Sarah Tomlinson provided practical advice on reducing the spread of TB, including the use of the ibTB map, a free online resource that tracks outbreaks over the past decade. She also detailed the TB scheme available through CHECS and discussed the Single Intradermal Comparative Cervical Tuberculin Test (SICCT), critical for diagnosing the disease.

Juan Velarde updated attendees on the current status of TB in the southwest, citing data that shows a decline in the disease. He reviewed various diagnostic tests, including the SICCT and the Interferon Gamma Blood Test (INF-G), as well as other validated blood tests like the IDEXX and the Enferplex test.

Tom Rabbetts shared insights into the Bovine TB Partnership's eradication strategy, targeting 2038 for total eradication. He discussed the controversial badger cull and its role in reducing disease incidence in affected areas. Additionally, Rabbetts touched on the potential future use of a cattle vaccine in managing bovine TB.

The event wrapped up with a collective sense of urgency and a call to action for both farmers and veterinarians to deepen their understanding of bovine TB and reclaim some measure of control over this devastating disease.

"A huge thank you goes to Sarah Tomlinson, Juan Velarde, and Tom Rabbetts, along with everyone who attended the meeting," concluded Lucy Morgan, encapsulating the evening's collaborative spirit.

The gathering at Padbrook Park Hotel not only provided crucial updates and advice but also reinforced the community's resolve to continue fighting bovine TB with enhanced vigor and cooperation.