Results to the end of February have been released by Animal Health Ireland for the approximately 514,000 BVD tissue sample results received by ICBF.  As of 28th February, figures indicate that 0.8% gave a positive result on initial testing, with a further 0.08% giving an inconclusive result. 1.1% of samples received were empty. These values are similar to those found in the voluntary phase of the programme in 2012.

Overall, the level of compliance with the programme is very encouraging, with results received for 96% of all calves registered during the first 5 weeks of 2013.

It is expected that a significant milestone will be reached before the second week of March with the number of tests recorded on the database passing the one million mark.

Further information on the BVD eradication programme, including regular updates on test numbers and results, is available in the farming press and from the Animal Health Ireland website, or from www.bvdfree.ie.

1st March 2013

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