This marks the first case of the 2024/25 vector season. During the 2023/24 vector season, between November 2023 and March 2024, there were 126 bluetongue cases in England on 73 premises.
A 20km TCZ (temporary control zone) has been put around the affected farm near Haddiscoe, South Norfolk, which will restrict movements of susceptible animals and their germinal products except under licence.
Defra has confirmed surveillance is underway to determine if the virus is currently circulating in the UK. In a statement published online, Defra said that given the current temperatures and midge activity which spread the disease, ‘there is a high risk of onward spread in the UK’.
The news follows a warning from Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss for livestock keepers to take up free testing, following an increase in cases in Northern Europe.
Spotting and reporting the signs
Symptoms vary across ruminants, but include fever, lesions, redness of the mouth, eyes, nose, reddening of the skin above the hoof, excessive salivation and nasal discharge. However, animals may show little or no clinical signs.
Find out more at: GOV.UK | Bluetongue: how to spot and report the disease.
Defra has said farmers should continue to monitor their animals frequently and report suspicion of disease immediately as well as ensuring their animals and land are registered with the APHA so keepers can be kept informed and animals easily located.
Bluetongue is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect it you must report it immediately. Failure to do so is an offence:
- England – call the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.
- Wales – contact 0300 303 8268.
- Scotland – contact your local Field Services Office.
If you need to move livestock from your holding, you should apply for a specific licence online using the Defra/APHA licensing portal. Specific licences for farmers within a TCZ and with tracings are available via the licensing portal: GOV.UK | Apply for an exemption from animal disease movement restrictions.
“The NFU is working with Defra and APHA to understand the rules and situation around movement restrictions, licences and surveillance.”
NFU President Tom Bradshaw
‘Worrying development’
Responding to the news, UK Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Ele Brown said: “Bluetongue does not pose a threat to human health or food safety, but the disease can impact livestock farms, and cause productivity issues. This is the first animal in England that has shown clinical signs and been unwell from infection with bluetongue.
“This detection is a clear reminder of the threat of the disease: farmers and their vets must remain vigilant and report any suspicions to APHA.”
NFU President Tom Bradshaw said the news was a “worrying development” and reiterated calls for vigilance.
“The NFU is working with Defra and APHA to understand the rules and situation around movement restrictions, licencing requirements and surveillance,” he added.
BTV does not pose any risk to the general public, nor to any food products from susceptible animals.
Help and support
If you are in need of help or support in the aftermath of a bluetongue outbreak on farm, there are a number of farming organisations that can help.
NFU CallFirst is also available for help and advice on farming, legal or technical issues on 0370 845 8458.
Members should keep regularly checking our bluetongue essential information page for the latest news and updates.
