On Friday 26 September Defra confirmed the first single detection of Bluetongue Virus serotype 8 (BTV8) since 2007, in a small sheep flock in Cornwall, England.

The case has been identified in an 8 year old sheep. APHA and Defra are now working at pace to conduct epidemiological investigations to help us understand how and when BTV8 - which is transmitted via infected midges - has been introduced. To minimise the risk of ongoing transmission, the sheep has been euthanised. APHA will gather evidence to determine if serotype 8 is in circulation. To date cases have been identified as the BTV3 variant and only one single detection of BTV12 earlier this year.

BTV controls and restrictions are already in place in England due to the previous BTV3 and BTV12 confirmations. Safe and effective vaccines are available. Bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) vaccines are now available and farmers are strongly encouraged to discuss their use with their private vet as vaccination is the most effective way to protect livestock from bluetongue.

Deputy UK Chief Veterinary Officer Jorge Martin-Almagro said: 

“Scientists, vets and field teams from the Animal and Plant Health Agency are working hard to help tackle bluetongue virus and ensure farmers are kept up to date and supported. I urge all livestock keepers to report any suspicion of the disease.

“We encourage all farmers and keepers to discuss the use of BTV-3 vaccines to protect their herds and flocks with their private vet as this is the most effective way of protecting susceptible species.”

BTV is a notifiable disease. Farmers should continue to monitor their animals frequently for clinical signs and report suspicion of disease immediately, they should also make sure their animals and land are registered with APHA so keepers can be kept informed and animals easily located

First single detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV3) in Wales

On Friday 26 September the Welsh Government confirmed the first detections of Bluetongue Virus serotype 3 (BTV3) at premises in Powys and Monmouthshire.  The premises have been placed under restriction and epidemiological investigations are ongoing.

Further information for farmers:

• Suspicion of BTV in animals in England must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301. 
• In Wales, suspected disease should be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03003 038 268. 
• In Scotland, you should contact your local Field Services Office if you suspect bluetongue. In Northern Ireland please report to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office. 
• Guidance for livestock owners on how to spot and report the disease can be found here: Bluetongue: news, information and guidance for livestock keepers - GOV.UK
• There are a number of authorised vaccines against BTV-8 which are licensed for use in England.  These can be imported from Europe through a special import certificate.