The number of cases of Schmallenberg virus in cattle in the UK is on the rise. Figures released by AHVLA show there have been 193 cases of SBV reported in cattle in the UK.

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The number of documented cases in cattle is approaching the levels seen in sheep; there have been 238 cases in sheep since the disease was first observed in the UK last year, though as cattle have a longer gestation period than sheep the full extent of the disease’s spread within the cattle population was not known until much later.

Although SBV has no known symptoms in sheep and has flu-like effects in cattle, infection during early pregnancy can lead to serious complications including stillbirth, spontaneous abortion and malformations of the foetus, particularly in the neck and limbs.  

The South-West remains the UK’s worst affected region. This is where midges which spread the disease are thought to have entered the country, having been blown over the Channel from mainland Europe in late summer 2011. However, cases have been reported across an area covering Northern Ireland, North Wales, Lancashire and Northumberland.  

Across Europe, there have been 6,641 reported cases of the virus across 11 countries. France has been worst hit, with 3,197 cases as of 30th October.

The disease can result in milk drop in cattle and can significantly reduce the rate of pregnancy in herds of cattle. Although the disease remains non-notifiable, farmers throughout the UK have been urged to contact their veterinarian should they suspect Schmallenberg infection in livestock.

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