Bluetongue virus cases continue to surge, says Defra

The potentially-fatal animal disease, which is spread by infected biting midges, affects ruminants including cattle, sheep, goats and deer.

This summer's first case was found in a sheep near the Broads village of Haddiscoe on August 26.

Less than four weeks later, the total number of farms affected by the BTV-3 virus now stands at more than 80, says Defra - higher than the 73 premises affected by the last outbreak, between November 2023 and March 2024.

The bluetongue virus, which affects animals including cattle and sheep, has been found on more than 80 farm premises since August 26, says Defra (Image: Newsquest) Following more confirmed cases this week, two "Restricted Zones" have been extended - one now covers Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, East Sussex and parts of Greater London, while another covers parts of Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.

Farmers inside the zones can move cattle, sheep and other susceptible animals within the RZ, but not outside it unless they have a specific licence.

National Farmers' Union president Tom Bradshaw said: “We continue to urge all livestock keepers to remain vigilant for any signs of clinical disease and to report any concerns quickly to their vet or APHA." 

Farmers are also encouraged to speak to their private vets about three new vaccines approved by Defra earlier this month, which can help alleviate bluetongue symptoms and reduce mortality rates.

The manufacturer of one of these, Ceva Animal Health, announced on Wednesday that its Bluevac-3 vaccine will be available from mid-October.

Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, but it is a notifiable disease and livestock keepers must report suspected cases to the APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) on 03000 200 301.

For more information see ruminanthw.org.uk/bluetongue-virus or www.gov.uk/guidance/bluetongue.