The Latest Breaking News from Christine Middlemiss

Human case of avian flu detected in England as virus spreads among birds

Second human case of H5N1 bird flu caught on farm in West Midlands but risk to public remains very low, says UKHSA

The Guardian - UK · Jan 27, 2025

Imports of cattle, pigs and sheep from Germany banned after foot-and-mouth found

The measures were announced on Tuesday in a bid to prevent the spread of the disease to the UK.

Evening Standard · Jan 14, 2025

Cat owners urged to take action or face £500 fine within weeks

Cats owners have been urged to microchip and register their cats before they reach 20 weeks of age

Evening Standard · May 8, 2024

What is bluetongue disease? Farmers urged to remain vigilant amid fear of future outbreaks

The virus can be found in a number of farmyard animals

Evening Standard · Nov 13, 2023

UK owners of existing American XL bully dogs face new rules but no cull

Dogs will have to be registered and kept leashed and muzzled in public, says chief veterinary officer

The Guardian - UK · Sep 16, 2023

No cull expected under American XL bully dogs ban, says chief vet

Chief Veterinary Officer Professor Christine Middlemiss said there would be an ‘amnesty’ approach.

The Independent UK · Sep 16, 2023

American XL bullies amnesty to come before ban as breed ‘linked to half of all dog attacks’

Leading vet says there will be no cull and owners who comply with rules ‘will absolutely be able to keep’ their dogs

The Independent UK · Sep 16, 2023

Poultry allowed outside again after risk of bird flu lowers

Strict biosecurity measures, such as preventing contact between wild and captive birds, are to remain in place.

The Independent UK · Apr 11, 2023

Cat owners given deadline to gets pets microchipped or face £500 fine

New legislation making its way through Parliament will see owners required to get their cat microchipped or face a fine of up to £500. It is estimated that around 2.3 million cats haven't been chipped in England

Daily Mirror · Mar 13, 2023

Health chiefs 'running emergency drills' in case bird flu spreads among humans

The bird flu virus that is causing havoc for poultry farming could spread to humans and Whitehall officials have reportedly said that emergency drills are being practiced in case it should happen

Daily Mirror · Nov 5, 2022