A rising number of bluetongue cases in Europe has led the UK's Chief Veterinary Officer to call for renewed vigilance and responsible sourcing of livestock.
The latest outbreak assessment from the Animal and Plant Health Agency confirms the growing number of cases of Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium, with over 4,000 recorded new cases reported since May 2024.
The first ever cases of BTV-3 have also been confirmed in France, Luxembourg and Denmark, while the virus strain has successfully overwintered in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium.
While the overall risk level for an incursion of BTV-3 into Great Britain remains at medium, the risk of infected midges being blown over from northern Europe is variable and continues to depend on weather conditions, with midges generally more active during the warmer months.
Farmers should therefore continue to monitor their animals frequently for clinical signs and are reminded of the vital importance of responsible sourcing of animals with a reliable health status. Always speak to your private vet when importing livestock, as the situation in Europe is continually changing.
Free testing is also available for animals moving from the highest risk counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent and East Sussex to elsewhere in Great Britain. This includes animals sold at a market within a high-risk county and moved elsewhere. This will help guard against animal movements potentially transporting undetected disease to new areas. Details of how to book a free test
