Bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) has been confirmed on further premises in the UK, as the disease continues to spread, according to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
The first case of bluetongue since March 2024 was detected in a single sheep at a premises near Haddiscoe, South Norfolk on August 26. Since then, the disease has been confirmed on 33 further premises.
Following reports of suspicion in cattle and sheep, the chief veterinary officer, Dr. Christine Middlemiss confirmed the presence of the virus on three new premises in the restricted zone yesterday (Sunday, September 8).
The restricted zone covering Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex has been amended late last week to include part of Greater London, according to the Defra.
One further case of bluetongue was identified through surveillance testing in the zone. This brings the total number of premises affected to 34, the Defra said.
Following reports of suspicion of bluetongue in cattle and sheep, the presence of BTV-3 on four new premises in the restricted zone was confirmed on Saturday (September 7).
A 20km temporary control zone remains in place after the virus was confirmed at a premises near Withernsea, East Riding of Yorkshire. This premises is an area previously free from bluetongue.
Bluetongue
Farmers keeping susceptible species – ruminants and camelids – must keep a close watch for, and report any suspected clinical signs, of bluetongue in their animals.
To move animals in a disease control zone in England, Scotland or Wales, farmers may need a licence. Not all licences are immediately available while the Defra investigate cases.Â
Free testing remains available for animals moving from high-risk counties outside of the restricted zone to elsewhere in Great Britain. Priority will be given to testing within the temporary control zone.
This includes animals sold at a market within a high-risk county and moved elsewhere. The high-risk counties are Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent and East Sussex.
If buying or importing animals, livestock owners should buy from reputable sources and check the health status of animals when sourcing livestock, according to the Defra.
