Bluetongue sees rapid increase across Europe

Livestock farmers have received renewed calls for vigilance in relation to potential bluetongue outbreaks.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (Apha) has warned of a rapid increase in cases of the BTV-3 strain of bluetongue in the Netherlands and Germany.

There are new cases reported in France, Luxemburg and Denmark.

See also: UK livestock sector at high risk of bluetongue this year

There is currently no evidence of bluetongue in Great Britain.

However, the explosion of cases in Europe means there is a much greater risk.

More than 4,000 new cases of bluetongue have been reported in northern Europe since May 2024.

Chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “Bluetongue outbreaks in Europe are on the rise.

“We must remain vigilant to the threat of disease spread.

“If you suspect disease in your animals, please report it.

“If you intend to move animals out of high-risk counties, including buying in new animals, please take advantage of the free testing scheme to help stop the movement of non-clinical disease.

“Bluetongue does not pose a threat to human health or food safety.

“However, it can impact livestock farms, and damage animal and business productivity.”

Farmers are advised to continue to monitor for symptoms, with free testing available in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent and East Sussex.

Apha interim chief executive Jenny Stewart said: “Apha’s latest outbreak assessment sets out the scale of bluetongue cases across Europe.

“It underlines how important it is for farmers and animal keepers to monitor their livestock.

“It is also important to take up the offer of free testing, where necessary.

“Our scientists, vets and field teams are ready to tackle any outbreak and ensure farmers are kept up to date and supported.”