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Bluetongue Information

Disease information

https://ruminanthw.org.uk/bluetongue-virus/

BTV-3 announcement – 15/01/24

Following active surveillance in the north-east Kent temporary control zone (TCZ), one further case of bluetongue in sheep has been identified on a premises near Aylesham in the existing TCZ.

The positive animal will be humanely culled to minimise the risk of onward transmission. The TCZ is not being extended and movement restrictions continue to apply to cattle, sheep, deer, camelids and other ruminants in the zone.

Check if you’re in a zone on the bluetongue disease control zone map.

Legislation is now in place around movement of animals into and out of the temporary control zone.

For up to date information on the location of the control zones visit the Defra website here.

A current list of designated abattoirs is now available here.

What is bluetongue?

Bluetongue (BTV) is a viral disease transmitted by biting midges, which affects all ruminants (e.g. sheep, cattle, goats and deer) and camelids (e.g. llama and alpaca).

The latest strain, BTV-3 appear to mimic BTV-8 in its behaviour, however the existing BTV-8 serotype vaccine will not offer cross protection against this new strain.

Bluetongue is a notifiable animal disease. If you suspect it you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence.

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