The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has issued a warning regarding the elevated risk of a new introduction of bluetongue virus (BTV-3) into Great Britain, urging farmers to remain vigilant in light of the imminent threat.

Bluetongue virus, transmitted primarily by biting midges (Culicoides species), poses a significant risk to cattle, sheep, and other ruminants. While the virus does not affect human health or food safety, it can have severe impacts on livestock, ranging from reduced productivity to fatality.

In an updated qualitative risk assessment released on May 7, 2024, APHA confirmed a very high probability of BTV-3 entering livestock in Great Britain through infected biting midges blown over from northern Europe. The timing of potential incursions will depend on temperature and wind patterns, with biting midges most active between April and November.

The risk assessment follows an outbreak of bluetongue virus in England last year, which saw 126 confirmed cases across 73 premises in four counties. Despite rigorous surveillance efforts, the last case was confirmed on March 8, 2024. Counties along the south and east coasts of England, including Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, and Sussex, are considered most vulnerable due to their proximity to areas in Northern Europe where BTV-3 is actively transmitted.

Dr. Christine Middlemiss, Chief Veterinary Officer, emphasized the importance of vigilance, urging farmers to monitor their animals frequently and report any suspicions to APHA. She reassured that despite the increase in midge activity, the current risk of transmission remains unchanged.

To combat the potential spread of bluetongue virus, APHA has enhanced surveillance measures and developed a robust control strategy, including the declaration of bluetongue disease Control Zones surrounding infected premises. Additionally, APHA has streamlined the licensing application system for moving animals between disease control zones in the event of an outbreak.

While there are currently no authorized vaccines available for BTV-3 in the UK or Europe, the government is actively engaging with vaccine manufacturers to develop a vaccine for use in the UK.

Biosecurity Minister Lord Douglas Miller emphasized the need to maintain a proportionate control strategy and assured farmers of government support, including free bluetongue tests for keepers in high-risk counties once the risk of transmission increases.

David Holdsworth, CEO of APHA, praised the agency’s scientists and veterinarians for their proactive planning and readiness to respond to any outbreak. He urged farmers to register their livestock and land with APHA and ensure their contact details are up to date.

The government remains committed to protecting Great Britain’s livestock sector through world-leading biosecurity measures and close collaboration with industry stakeholders. Further updates on bluetongue virus control measures will be provided by Defra and APHA as the situation evolves.