Government Aims for a TB-Free England by 2038 with New Vaccination Initiatives for Cattle and Badgers

The Government is making significant strides in the fight against bovine tuberculosis (TB), with new cases of TB breakdowns in England decreasing by 20% compared to the previous year. Notably, this marks the first year in over a decade that no badgers have been culled.

This progress coincides with the Government’s formal adoption of a long-term strategy aimed at eradicating bovine TB from England entirely by 2038. Announced on Thursday, 5th November, the strategy encompasses a comprehensive approach, incorporating the development of vaccines for both cattle and badgers, mandatory blood testing, enhanced wildlife surveillance, and a broader selection of diagnostic tests.

Crafted in collaboration with experts, including farmers, veterinarians, and scientists, the strategy provides a clear roadmap to address the challenges posed by bovine TB in England. Initially published in June, it is now set to be actively implemented by government authorities.

Addressing a Critical Challenge

Bovine TB remains one of the most pressing animal health issues in the country. The disease not only inflicts a considerable emotional and financial burden on farming families but also disrupts rural businesses and results in the loss of thousands of cattle annually.

The recent announcement reflects the positive developments being achieved in combating bovine TB. The number of herds losing their TB-free status has decreased significantly, and 2026 is poised to be the first year in over ten years without badger culling, fulfilling a commitment to end this practice.

Biosecurity Minister Baroness Hayman emphasised the devastating impact of bovine TB on farming communities, highlighting the emotional toll and financial difficulties faced by farmers. She stated, “No farmer should have to accept this disease as an unavoidable part of their livelihood.” The Minister reiterated that the comprehensive strategy will guarantee the cessation of badger culling and aim to prevent the further spread of this troubling disease.

Key Measures Underway

Efforts are already in motion to implement several critical components of the strategy, including:

• Cattle vaccination: The development of a deployable cattle vaccine is ongoing, alongside a new skin test designed to differentiate infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA), with ambitions to roll out cattle vaccination by 2030.
• Improved disease testing: The Government is expanding its mandatory blood testing programme, with plans to pilot additional privately funded testing to enhance infection detection.
• Badger vaccination: A Badger Vaccination Field Force has been established to facilitate vaccination in priority areas.
• Wildlife surveillance: A new government-funded initiative will focus on collecting and testing deceased badgers to improve understanding of the disease.

Additionally, the Government plans to form a new industry-government board to succeed the existing Bovine TB Partnership for England. This board will unite government and industry stakeholders to oversee the execution of the strategy. Expected to be established in 2027, it will review and endorse the initial delivery plan, outlining essential actions and their implementation methods.

A Collaborative Approach

The Government remains committed to working alongside farmers, veterinary professionals, and other partners to maintain a coordinated effort in tackling bovine TB. This collaboration aims to safeguard animal health and mitigate the impact of the disease on rural communities.