Revised protocol issued for TB testing on farms

FOLLOWING consultation with farming and veterinary stakeholders, the Department of Agriculture has today issued revised protocol for the TB testing of cattle during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The department said it wants to facilitate farmers in continuing efforts to eradicate TB and undertake testing as required, while also facilitating the continuation of animal movements and all elements of the food supply chain.

The arrangements will continue until April 1, subject to review. As the Covid situation is evolving, the guidance may change as a result.

Some key points include:

• Those involved in carrying out a TB test should act in accordance with the guidance of the HSE at all times.

• Where a herd cannot be TB tested due to Covid-19 related issues, the trading status of the herd will be suspended when the herd becomes overdue. However, a grace period of 28 days from the date on which the herd test becomes due will be applied before this suspension comes into effect, during which the herd can continue trading. When the suspension is then applied, moves directly to slaughter will still be permitted.

• Calves between 42 and 120 days of age should be TB tested only where both the farmer and the vet are satisfied that social distancing can be adhered to.

• People involved in carrying out a TB test are advised to act in accordance with HSE guidance. Before commencing, the PVP should make a plan with the farmer regarding physical distancing. This can include greater use of a head restraining gate or use of a longer guide stick to help to raise heads, and should include discussion of the use of face coverings based on HSE guidance.

• Only essential personnel should be allowed to be present during a TB test. No children or non-essential adults should be present at any time during the test.

If a situation arises which is not addressed in the department's documentation, please contact your RVO.

The full protocol is available here: https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/5b92a-bovine-tb/#covid-19-contingencies