Bluetongue Virus
An Update On The Current Bluetongue Virus (BTV) Situation
There have now been seven confirmed cases within the temporary control zone (TCZ) in the Canterbury region of Kent which has led to an extension of the zone to help minimise the spread of the disease.
Anyone within the current TCZ will be contacted by APHA who will explain what this means and any actions that need to be taken.
The DEFRA website has updated information on the virus including identification and prevention. You can also find a useful interactive map outlining the control zone area.
In addition to the above, the Ruminant Health and Welfare Group are releasing regular updates on the virus with useful links and some FAQs.
Wednesday 6 December 2023
A Case Of Bluetongue Virus In A Cow In Kent
Following a case of bluetongue virus (BTV) in a cow in Kent, the UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer issued a warning to farmers to remain vigilant for the disease.
The cow was culled to reduce further risks of disease transmission and a temporary 10km control zone has been put in place around the farm while APHA investigates. Legislation has been put in place to manage the movement of animals into and out of the control zone.
Tuesday 14 November 2023
About Bluetongue Virus
- While bluetongue is not directly contagious (it spreads via insects to other animals, but not humans) and does not pose a risk to human health or food safety, it can be harmful or even fatal to susceptible animals, such as cattle, goats, sheep, deer and llamas.
- The disease can also be transferred from mother to foetus and thus pose a threat to farmers’ plans as well as their current herd/flock.
- Symptoms vary from animal to animal and ruminants such as goats and cattle can display no symptoms or even take several weeks before symptoms begin. However, sheep tend to show symptoms more quickly.
- Symptoms include fever, excessive salivation, ulcers in the nose and mouth (which can look similar to those of foot and mouth disease), swollen head, lips or tongue, weakness/lethargy and weight loss. In pregnant animals, they may lose the foetus.
- BTV is a notifiable disease. Suspicion of BTV in animals in England must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) on 03000 200 301.
- Vaccination is the most effective measure to prevent the spread of disease, however, the new strain, found in this cow and currently circulating in Europe (BTV 3) has no vaccine yet. Farmers must practise good biosecurity, responsibly source livestock and remain vigilant for signs of the disease.