Video makes the case for bluetongue vaccination
The NFU has launched an online video to help in the fight against bluetongue.
Produced by NFU East Anglia and NFU South East, it sets out the serious risk bluetongue poses, why livestock keepers should vaccinate, and what steps to take when vaccinating cattle and sheep.
It includes an interview with Norfolk farmer and NFU regional livestock representative Roger Long, who discusses the serious impact bluetongue has had in countries such as France and Belgium.
Mr Long was part of a group which travelled to France last year to meet farmers with livestock affected by the disease.
In the video he says: "Our only way forward to eradicate bluetongue is to go for a 100% vaccination programme. That will combat the suffering and stress we saw in France with both sheep and cattle."
The video also includes interviews with bluetongue expert Dr Chris Oura from the Institute for Animal Health and vet Matt Dobbs, who demonstrates vaccination techniques for both sheep and cattle.
The six minute video is now available to view on the NFU website and copies will also be available on DVD for use at NFU branch meetings and livestock events across the region.
It was produced with support from Business Link East and funding from East of England Development Agency as part of the NFU's contribution to JAB, the Joint campaign Against Bluetongue.
NFU regional livestock adviser Alex Butler-Zagni said: "This video is a timely addition to the fight against bluetongue and makes a powerful case for vaccination."
Defra announced on Wednesday that three million doses of the bluetongue BTV8 vaccine have been released for use in the bluetongue protection zone.
Bluetongue is spread by midges and affects cattle and sheep. It does not affect people.
