England's strategy to combat bovine tuberculosis by 2038

A long-term strategy aimed at the complete eradication of bovine tuberculosis by 2038 has been officially adopted in England. This step has been taken against the background of a one-fifth reduction in the number of new disease outbreaks in herds compared to the previous 12 months. In addition, in 2026, for the first time in more than a decade, no badger culling was carried out as part of the fight against the infection, fulfilling a pre-election promise to end such culling.

The multi-faceted approach has been developed in cooperation with experts, farmers, veterinarians, and scientists. The strategy includes the development of vaccines for cattle and badgers, the introduction of mandatory blood tests, enhanced wildlife monitoring, and an expanded choice of tests. This comprehensive set of measures aims to prevent the spread of the disease, which causes severe emotional and financial damage to farms and leads to the annual loss of thousands of livestock animals.

To monitor the implementation of the outlined plan, a new industry government board is scheduled to be established in 2027 to replace the existing Bovine Tuberculosis Partnership for England. This body will bring together government and industry representatives to approve the first action plan and coordinate the joint efforts of farmers, veterinary specialists, and other partners.