Bluetongue is a viral disease affecting ruminants such as sheep, cattle and deer, . It is transmitted by biting midges, and causes swelling, lameness and fever.
Though not harmful to humans, it impacts livestock health and farming in the UK. Outbreaks are monitored to prevent spread and economic loss.
Richard Irvine, Wales’ Chief Veterinary Officer explains how to spot signs of bluetongue, how to report it in sheep, cattle and other livestock, and the best ways to help prevent it.
What is bluetongue disease?
Bluetongue is caused by a virus that is primarily transmitted by certain species of biting midges.
Which animals are affected by bluetongue?
Bluetongue affects ruminants, such as cattle, goats, sheep and deer. It also affects camelids, such as alpacas and llamas.
Is bluetongue dangerous to people?
Bluetongue does not affect people or food safety.
Signs of bluetonge
The impacts on susceptible animals can vary greatly – some show few clinical signs, for others it can cause productivity issues such as reduced milk yield or reproductive losses, while the most severe cases can be fatal for infected animals.
How to report bluetongue
Bluetongue is a notifiable disease and suspect cases must be reported immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
Your local APHA office should be contacted immediately on 0300 303 8268 if you suspect bluetongue in your animals. APHA vets will investigate suspected cases.
Further information on the clinical signs of bluetongue and action to be taken can be found here.
Ways to help prevent bluetongue
Farmers can help prevent the disease by:
- Responsibly sourcing livestock with a reliable health status
- Practicing good biosecurity on their premises
- Remaining vigilant and reporting symptoms in their livestock
Keepers considering bringing in animals or biological products, for example germinal products, from BTV disease control zones or other affected countries should consult their vet to check whether this is permitted, and what risks are associated with this action. This should always be done before deciding to move or import animals.
All businesses should have a contingency plan, including their response to disease outbreaks on their premises and their inclusion in a disease control zone. Contingency plans should include details of where animals are normally slaughtered to check that abattoir is designated.
Further information and resources on the current bluetongue situation are also available on the Ruminant Health and Welfare website.
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