The rise in bluetongue cases across Europe has prompted the UK's chief veterinary officer to urge farmers to remain vigilant and ensure responsible livestock sourcing.

The latest outbreak assessment highlights the increasing number of bluetongue virus (BTV-3) cases in the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) reporting over 4000 new cases since May 2024.

For the first time, cases have also been confirmed in France, Luxembourg, and Denmark, with the virus successfully overwintering in the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium. Despite this, the overall risk level for BTV-3 entering Great Britain remains at 'medium.

However, the risk of infected midges being carried over from northern Europe is variable, depending on weather conditions, as midges are typically more active during warmer months.

While bluetongue poses no threat to human health or food safety, the disease can significantly impact livestock farms, affecting both animal health and business productivity. Farmers are encouraged to frequently monitor their animals for clinical signs and to prioritize responsible sourcing from reliable health statuses.

APHA advises farmers to consult with their private vets when importing livestock, as the situation in Europe continues to evolve. Free testing is available for animals moving from the highest risk counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, and East Sussex to other parts of Great Britain.

UK's chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss emphasized the growing threat of bluetongue outbreaks in Europe. "We must remain vigilant to the threat of disease spread. If you suspect disease in your animals please report," she said.

“If you intend to move animals out of high-risk counties, or if you are buying in new animals, please take advantage of the free testing scheme to help prevent the spread of non-clinical disease.

“Bluetongue does not pose a threat to human health or food safety, but the disease can impact livestock farms, and damage animal and business productivity.”

APHA's interim chief executive, Jenny Stewart, echoed the importance of monitoring livestock and utilizing the free testing service where necessary. “Our scientists, vets, and field teams stand ready to tackle an outbreak of bluetongue virus and ensure farmers are kept up to date and supported.”

Bluetongue virus, primarily transmitted through midge bites, affects cattle, goats, sheep, and camelids such as llamas. The impact on susceptible animals varies, with some showing no clinical signs while others may experience productivity issues or, in severe cases, fatal outcomes. Despite this, the virus does not affect people, and meat and milk from infected animals remain safe for consumption.

Last November, government vets identified the first case of the disease in Britain through the annual bluetongue surveillance programme. In response, the government has outlined plans to mitigate the impact of a potential outbreak, especially with the anticipated surge in cases during the summer months.

Currently, there is no authorised or approved BTV-3 vaccine for use in the UK, but free testing is available for animal keepers.