Animal health scientists have warned that Schmallenberg virus spread throughout England and Wales during the 2012 active midge season, covering previously unaffected areas.

Samples from sheep in counties where the virus had not previously been detected were tested for antibodies by AHVLA officials; analysis of the tests showed animals in a number of previously unaffected regions had been infected by SBV. Although the revelation will cause concern amongst farmers, once infected animals appear to develop immunity to Schmallenberg, meaning the disease's effects may be short-term.

Antibodies were found in animals at farms in Northumberland, North Yorkshire, Shropshire, Carmarthenshire and Powys, indicating the presence of SBV in these counties and surrounding ones, AHVLA said on Tuesday (16th October).

AHVLA scientists also confirmed that a suspected case from Lancashire was the result of Schmallenberg infection. A malformed calf from a cattle herd in Lancashire tested positive for SBV infection. AHVLA commented “This is the first case of SBV to be reported in the county and indicates that Schmallenberg virus was present early in 2012 because damage to a calf follows infection early in pregnancy.”

Simon Hall Veterinary Director at AHVLA said of the latest revelations, “These findings indicate that Schmallenberg virus has spread to previously unaffected areas during this year’s active midge season. When infection occurs in animals that are not pregnant, the impact is very limited and protects against SBV affecting future offspring.

“As we saw in 2012 the overall impact on British farms in relatively limited, although I recognise the concern it causes for farmers whose livestock are affected. AHVLA will continue to monitor the spread of the disease and provide information to help farmers make informed business decisions.”

Whilst Scottish farming groups are attempting to prevent spread of SBV and increase knowledge of the disease by encouraging farmers importing livestock from infected areas to test their animals and recommending keepers report any abnormalities to vets, in England and Wales, AHVLA has pledged to continue providing updates and listing newly affected areas as they become known.

Although SBV is not currently a notifiable disease, farmers are advised to contact their veterinarian if they encounter any suspected cases of SBV disease in their herds or flocks. Vetsshould then contact their AHVLA/SAC laboratory if they suspect infection with the virus. Further information on SBV is available here.

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