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November 2026 Newsletter

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Standing Together Through Avian Influenza

At Poultry Health Services, we remain committed to supporting producers like Catherine
through the incredibly challenging experience of a flock testing positive for avian influenza
(AI).

We understand the devastating impact this disease can have on poultry businesses,
livelihoods and the people behind them. We will continue to stand alongside our producers,
offering support and guidance when they need us most.

Read Catherine’s story and learn more about the devastating impact of avian influenza this
season BBC News Catherine’s Story.

Prepare Your Flock – by booking your biosecurity review. You Could Receive £430 from DEFRA!
At Poultry Health Services (PHS), your review can be carried out by your own PHS vet
alongside another visit, whether routine, emergency, health plan or EDO338.

For more information on how to apply for the DEFRA funding can be found by clicking the link
Gov.uk/guidance/poultry-biosecurity-review-funding-guidance

Poultry PCR Panels – Targeted Testing to Support Flock Health

By Samantha Searle BSc (Hons) MSc

Early and accurate detection of poultry pathogens is an important part
of maintaining flock health and supporting effective disease management.

Our range of poultry PCR panels offers a convenient way to test for
multiple pathogens in a single panel (with up to five swabs pooled),

helping you investigate respiratory disease and other important health concerns in your
flock. We offer three panels to suit different testing requirements:

Respiratory Panel 1: Mycoplasma species, Avian Rhinotracheitis, Infectious Bronchitis Virus
and Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale

Respiratory Panel 2: Mycoplasma gallisepticum (Mg), Mycoplasma synoviae (Ms), Avian
Rhinotracheitis, Infectious Bronchitis Virus and Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale

Broiler Panel 4: Avian Rhinotracheitis, Infectious Bronchitis Virus, Infectious Bursal Disease
and Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale.

Poultry PCR Panels – Targeted Testing to Support Flock Health

By combining multiple targets within each panel, our PCR testing provides a practical option
for investigating relevant pathogens and supporting informed decisions about flock health
and disease control.

Not sure which panel is right for your flock? Our team of experienced veterinarians can help
you identify the most suitable option for your testing requirements.

December Feedback Link

Newbridge Scientifc are looking for your feedback! Please keep an eye out for the link to the
Newbridge Scientific Feedback survey in the next months newsletter.

Christmas Reminder

Our laboratory will operate as usual throughout the Christmas period, with samples processed
and results reported daily.

However, there will be no Royal Mail collections or deliveries on
Scottish bank holidays, including 25 and 28 December 2026. Please check: Royal Mail Dates

Please plan salmonella sampling and sample dispatches in advance, using Royal Mail’s
Tracked 24 or Special Delivery services during December to help minimise postal delays.

Don’t forget to order vaccines and routine supplements well in advance to ensure your birds
remain covered throughout the festive period.

Reminder – RSPCA Requirements for Natural Daylight Through Popholes for Free-Range Producers from 01/12/2026

RSPCA Assured has confirmed that a new welfare standard requiring natural daylight to be provided through popholes during housing periods will come into effect for all free-range flocks placed from 1 December 2026.
For more information please visit: RSPCA Standards BFREPA.

www.poultryhealthservices.com www.newbridgescientific.com

Devon: 01404 841011 Hereford: 01568 610343 Leominster: 01568 610343 Shrewsbury: 01829 740639 Cheshire: 01829 740639
Preston: 01829 740639 Nottingham: 01509 458287 York: 03147 820366 Edinburgh: 0131 5164001