Farmers urged to be vigilant for Bluetongue disease

1 October 2024

Farmers in Powys are being urged to be vigilant after Bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) was identified in three sheep that moved to Gwynedd from the east of England.

It is the first time Bluetongue-3 has been found in Wales and follows BTV-3 cases being detected in the east of England over the last month.

Now Powys County Council's Animal Health Team are urging farmers to be vigilant for the disease and practice safe sourcing of livestock.

Bluetongue is caused by a virus that is primarily transmitted by certain species of biting midges. It affects ruminants (such as cattle, goats, sheep and deer) and camelids (such as alpacas and llamas).

Bluetongue does not affect people or food safety.

Bluetongue is a notifiable animal disease. If suspected, farmers in Powys must report it immediately by calling 0300 303 8268.

Cllr Richard Church, Powys County Council's Cabinet Member for a Safer Powys, said: "The cases identified in Gwynedd are from animals bought into Wales.

It is important to talk to your vet, and practice safe-sourcing of livestock to protect our herds and flocks and keep any further disease out of Wales.

"I would urge all farmers and others who keep ruminants and camelids to be vigilant for the signs of Bluetongue and to report any suspect cases to APHA immediately."

For the latest information visit www.gov.uk/bluetongue

Further information and resources on the current bluetongue situation are also available at https://ruminanthw.org.uk/bluetongue-virus/