Visual representation of declining bovine TB rates in Wales, symbolizing successful veterinary partnerships and disease control.

Wales' Bovine TB Success: How Welsh Vets Slashed Cases

Elliot Brynn in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 3 min read.

"Learn how a partnership approach and strategic disease control have led to a significant reduction in bovine tuberculosis cases in Wales."

Bovine tuberculosis (TB) poses a significant challenge to livestock farmers and animal health officials worldwide. Wales, however, has demonstrated notable progress in tackling this persistent disease.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Welsh veterinarians and a collaborative approach to disease control, Wales has achieved a remarkable 35% reduction in new bovine TB incidents within its Intensive Action Area.

This article explores the strategies and partnerships driving this success, while also addressing the ongoing challenges and future directions in the fight against bovine TB in Wales.

The Welsh Veterinary Partnership: A Model for TB Control

Visual representation of declining bovine TB rates in Wales, symbolizing successful veterinary partnerships and disease control.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has lauded Welsh vets for their proactive role in reducing bovine TB cases. Central to this success is a partnership-based approach, where vets, government agencies, and farmers work together to implement effective disease control measures.

Gudrun Ravetz, then BVA President, highlighted the impact of this collaboration, stating that the 35% reduction in TB incidents within the Intensive Action Area is a testament to the success of this joined-up working. This collaborative spirit fosters trust and ensures that control strategies are implemented effectively and consistently.

Collaboration between vets, government, and farmers
Strategic disease control measures
Consistent implementation of strategies

Despite the encouraging progress, Ravetz cautioned against complacency, emphasizing that TB statistics can fluctuate. She advocated for the inclusion of evidence-based badger control as part of a refreshed eradication strategy, particularly in light of the suspension of the badger vaccination project. This reflects an adaptive approach, continually refining strategies based on the latest scientific evidence and practical considerations.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Progress and Upholding Welfare Standards

The Welsh government's commitment to animal health extends beyond TB eradication. At the BVA's annual Welsh dinner, Ravetz urged Cabinet Secretary Lesley Griffiths to mandate CCTV in slaughterhouses. This measure would help ensure that welfare standards at slaughter match the high standards observed across other areas of Welsh policy.

By integrating technology and reinforcing accountability, Wales can further enhance its reputation for responsible and ethical animal management. The ongoing efforts to combat bovine TB, coupled with a focus on welfare standards, demonstrate a holistic approach to animal health in Wales.

The success in reducing bovine TB cases offers valuable lessons for other regions grappling with similar challenges. By prioritizing collaboration, evidence-based strategies, and a commitment to animal welfare, significant progress can be made in safeguarding livestock and supporting the livelihoods of farmers.

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Everything You Need To Know

What specific achievements have been made in Wales regarding bovine tuberculosis (TB)?

Wales has achieved a 35% reduction in new bovine TB incidents within its Intensive Action Area. This progress is attributed to the dedicated efforts of Welsh veterinarians and a collaborative approach to disease control, involving vets, government agencies, and farmers.

How are Welsh vets contributing to the reduction of bovine TB cases?

Welsh vets play a proactive role through a partnership-based approach. This involves close collaboration with government agencies and farmers to implement effective disease control measures. The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has recognized the impact of this joined-up working in achieving the reduction in TB incidents.

What is the 'Welsh Veterinary Partnership,' and why is it important in combating bovine TB?

The 'Welsh Veterinary Partnership' signifies the collaborative approach between vets, government agencies, and farmers in Wales. This partnership is crucial because it fosters trust and ensures that control strategies are implemented effectively and consistently. Gudrun Ravetz, then BVA President, emphasized that the 35% reduction in TB incidents within the Intensive Action Area is a testament to the success of this collaboration.

Besides reducing TB, what other animal welfare initiatives are being pursued by the Welsh government?

Beyond TB eradication, the Welsh government is committed to broader animal health and welfare standards. Gudrun Ravetz urged Cabinet Secretary Lesley Griffiths to mandate CCTV in slaughterhouses to ensure that welfare standards at slaughter align with the high standards observed across other areas of Welsh policy.

What future strategies are being considered for bovine TB eradication in Wales, and why are they important?

Future strategies involve continually refining approaches based on the latest scientific evidence and practical considerations. Gudrun Ravetz advocated for the inclusion of evidence-based badger control as part of a refreshed eradication strategy, particularly in light of the suspension of the badger vaccination project. This adaptive approach is crucial for sustaining progress and addressing the complexities of TB control. Fluctuations in TB statistics necessitate ongoing adjustments to ensure continued success.