The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is commemorating its 10th anniversary today, marking a decade of tireless efforts to protect the UK’s animal and plant health.
Formed on October 1, 2014, through the merger of several pre-existing agencies, APHA has established itself as a world leader in biosecurity and disease control.
A Decade of Vigilance
Since its inception, APHA has been at the forefront of identifying and controlling both endemic and exotic diseases and pests affecting animals, plants, and bees. The agency’s work has been crucial in safeguarding public health, the economy, and the environment.
Top achievements over the past decade include:
- Leading research in parasitic diseases and vaccines
- Employing over 900 scientists, many of whom are world leaders in their fields
- Serving as an International Reference Laboratory for 23 international and 49 national animal and plant health specialisms
- Managing the UK’s largest avian influenza outbreak between 2021-2023
Current Challenges
APHA’s expertise is currently being put to the test as it leads the operational response to the impacts of bluetongue virus (BTV-3) affecting farmers across the country. Simultaneously, the agency is tackling the threat of yellow-legged hornets, also known as Asian hornets, particularly in South East England.
Jenny Stewart, APHA Chief Executive, praised the agency’s staff:
“APHA has been at the forefront of tackling disease for a decade, with our experts working around the clock to anticipate any threats to the UK’s biosecurity.”
“I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to our exceptionally hard-working staff who have been at the heart of exciting new scientific research and on the frontlines against invasive species and diseases like bluetongue over the past ten years.”
Economic Impact
The agency’s work has significant economic implications:
Sector |
Annual Value to UK Economy |
|---|---|
| Livestock, meat, and related exports | £12 billion |
| Cost of invasive non-native species | £1.9 billion (in direct costs) |
Future Focus
As APHA looks to the future, it faces increasing challenges from zoonotic diseases, with nearly two-thirds of infectious diseases in humans originating in animals.
The agency’s headquarters in Weybridge remains the UK’s primary capability for managing these threats.
Stewart affirmed the agency’s commitment:
“We will continue our work to safeguard animal and plant health for the benefit of people, the environment and the economy.”
For more information on APHA’s work and future initiatives, visit the official APHA website at www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency.
Sources: THX News, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs & Animal and Plant Health Agency.
