The first confirmed case of Bluetooth (BTV-3) in the UK this year has been confirmed, with infections detected in Buckinghamshire, Herefordshire and Oxfordshire.
Authorities have declared the UK is in a high-risk period for Vector. In other words, midge activity is currently rising, significantly increasing the risk of viral infection between animals.
In Herefordshire, two cows tested positive following a non-negative pre-movement test, but no clinical signs were observed in either animal.
In Oxfordshire, a single sheep tested positive after exhibiting suspicious clinical signs, including hot and painful legs, resistance to movement, and general mal lazyness.
And in Buckinghamshire, one sheep was confirmed to be positive following reports of suspicious clinical signs.
The virus does not take a risk to public health or food safety, but can cause severe disease and loss of production in anti-min animals, including sheep and cows.
The UK veterinarians are urging farmers to stay vigilant as animals showing signs consistent with blue tongs must be reported immediately to authorities.
They also explain that the BTV-3 vaccine remains the only effective tool currently available to protect against infection and related production losses.
Earlier this month, the Bluetongue restriction zone across England was introduced, replacing the previous patchwork of localized zones.
The development sparked concern as farmers moved animals to Scotland and Wales became subject to strict testing requirements for movement.
However, the Welsh government recently announced that Bluetooth has approved a “red market” to support livestock farmers working on disease control measures.
The change, effective from July 14th, will allow livestock to be moved from the UK’s Blue Tong Restrictions Zone to an approved market in Wales.
Announced earlier this week by the Welsh government, allowing direct travel to designated slaughterhouses within Wales or restricted zones.
Dr. Angus Weiss, official veterinarian director for the National Sheep Association (NSA) Wales & Borderlame Sales, recently issued a harsh warning that when Blue Tongs will arrive in Wales.
“Yusudge carrying the blue tongs does not stop at the Welsh border,” Dr. Weiss said. “The disease can have devastating consequences for sheep farmers.
“The death rate is up to 70% in sheep, so vaccinations are easy. That’s an insurance policy you can’t afford to ignore.”
Dr. Wyse highlighted the Netherlands crisis that the Bluetooth outbreak overwhelmed corpse disposal services.
He urged Welsh sheep farmers to act now. Vaccinations are a cost-effective safeguard, especially at current livestock prices.
Bluetooth is an animal disease that can be notified. If you are in doubt, you should report it immediately.
•In the UK, call the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301
•In Wales, please contact 0300 303 8268
•In Scotland, we will notify local field service offices
Not reporting a suspected case is a criminal offence.
