Options to undertake tests in Officially Tuberculosis Free (OTF) herds sooner than scheduled

If your test falls at an inconvenient time, you may be able to test sooner than scheduled. Reasons to test at your preferred time can include:

• avoiding block calving periods in dairy herds
• testing cattle before turning out in the spring
• testing cattle before moving to summer grazing
• testing store cattle before selling in the autumn

You must ask to undertake a test sooner in writing and before the testing window has started. No tests can be delayed. 

Test dates cannot be changed if the testing window is already open.

In Wales, all Officially Tuberculosis Free (OTF) herds must be routinely tested annually. Herds in the Intensive Action Area are tested every 6 months.  Herd owners are notified by APHA when the tests are due. They generally have a 60-day testing window. They receive a test notification letter 2 months ahead of the start of the testing window. Herd owners must arrange for their veterinary practice to complete the test during the testing window.

If your test is not completed by the end of the testing window: 

• your herd will be placed under restrictions
• you may be subject to penalties 

The following test types may be brought forward by up to five months from the testing window start date:

• whole herd tests (WHT)
• 12 month check tests (12M) following a breakdown 
• 12 month contiguous check tests (CON12) 

The following test types may be brought forward by a month for herds within the Intensive Action Area of Wales (IAA): 

• 6 monthly herd tests (IA6 and IA12) 

The following non-routine tests may be brought forward by a month from the testing window start date:

• Contiguous tests (CON)
• Contiguous herd tests (CON6) carried out six months after the initial contiguous test or a previous 6-month contiguous test

Check tests undertaken six months after a breakdown cannot be undertaken sooner.

A cattle keeper may have several years of non-routine testing due to a herd breakdown or contiguous test requirements, before being able to return to a routine schedule of testing. 

There is discretion to help you if your tests fall shortly after turnout or at another inconvenient time.

There is an option for callers to hear the telephone message in Welsh. APHA will try to connect you to a Welsh-speaking person if you wish. 

Telephone: 0300 303 8268

Email: apha.cymruwales@apha.gov.uk