The UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer has confirmed three new cases of Bluetongue virus BTV3 on two premises in Norfolk and Suffolk, bringing the total number of cases to four. This development has prompted authorities to implement immediate measures to control the spread of the disease.
A temporary control zone (TCZ) has been established around several affected farms following the detection of the bluetongue virus, a disease that poses a significant threat to livestock. The TCZ restricts the movement of susceptible animals, including cattle, sheep, and other ruminants, as well as their germinal products, except under licence. These measures are part of a broader effort to contain the disease and prevent further spread.
The Chief Veterinary Officer has called for increased vigilance and responsible livestock sourcing, particularly given the current temperatures and high midge activity, which are known to spread the virus. This alert follows a rising number of bluetongue cases in Northern Europe, heightening concerns of onward transmission to the UK.
Surveillance and Precautionary Measures
Surveillance efforts are now underway to determine if the virus is circulating more widely in the UK. Farmers within the control zone, and across the country, are urged to take the following actions:
- Monitor animals frequently for clinical signs of the disease.
- Report any suspicion of disease immediately to the authorities.
- Ensure all animals and land are registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
- Utilize free testing for animals from high-risk counties to confirm their health status.
UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Ele Brown stated, “Bluetongue does not pose a threat to human health or food safety, but the disease can impact livestock farms and cause productivity issues. These are the first few cases in England where animals have shown clinical signs and been unwell from infection with bluetongue.
Brown emphasized the importance of vigilance among farmers, adding, “These detections are a clear reminder of the threat of the disease: farmers and their vets must remain vigilant and report any suspicions to APHA.
Impact of Bluetongue Virus
Bluetongue primarily affects cattle, goats, sheep, deer, and camelids such as llamas and alpacas. The virus, transmitted by midge bites, can cause a range of symptoms from reduced productivity to severe, sometimes fatal, illness in infected animals. However, it is important to note that meat and milk from affected animals remain safe for consumption.
As the situation develops, veterinary authorities continue to monitor the outbreak closely. Livestock keepers are urged to remain alert and follow all prescribed guidelines to minimize the spread of the disease and protect the health of their animals.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available regarding the extent of the virus’s impact and the effectiveness of the control measures in place.
