Bluetongue

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.

UK farmer survey launched to understand on-farm impact from bluetongue, Farmers are urged to take part in the survey, which can be accessed at https://bit.ly/BTV3survey.

Useful links

• Ruminant Health and Welfare – Bluetongue HUB
• AHDB
• Scottish-Bluetongue-leaflet-March-2024
• Defra-Bluetongue-Flyer-16.02.24
• Pirbright
• DEFRA