Discuss their needs with a private veterinary surgeon and consider the risks and the health status of animals when sourcing stock from regions affected by bluetongue virus, such as France.However, sheep farmers are strongly reminded to: Strict rules on the movement of livestock from regions affected by bluetongue are already in place. This follows similar action taken for two affected cattle last month. The midges are most active between May and October and not all susceptible animals show immediate signs of contracting the virus.Īction is being taken to ensure the spread of the disease is prevented, with movement restrictions at the affected premises. It can reduce milk yield, cause infertility and in the most severe cases is fatal for infected animals. The virus is transmitted by midge bites and affects cattle, goats, sheep and other camelids such as llamas.
The four sheep have been humanely culled as a result.īluetongue does not affect people or food safety. The Animal and Plant Health Agency ( APHA) and the Pirbright Institute identified the disease as part of routine post-import testing when the sheep were brought to Lancashire. The UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer has urged sheep farmers to remain vigilant for bluetongue virus ( BTV) after the disease was picked up and dealt with in a consignment of four sheep imported from France.
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