Bluetongue – vaccination best form of defence as concern grows over spread of virus
Livestock farmers are being urged to review their bluetongue defences and speak to their vets about vaccination as cases of BTV-3 continue to rise across England and Wales.
More than 200 confirmed cases have already been recorded in England and Wales during the current vector season, with 31 new cases confirmed in England just yesterday (6 August). The South West, including Devon and Cornwall, is a particular hotspot for the disease.
Vaccination offers protection against BTV-3
Vaccination remains the strongest defence available to livestock farmers who are battling the growing threat of the bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) which is spreading at an alarming rate across the UK, the NFU has said.
The hot, dry weather has created favourable conditions for biting midges, the insects that spread BTV-3 (bluetongue).
NFU Acting Livestock Board Chair Clare Wise said: “The past few days have been a stark reminder that bluetongue poses a serious and growing threat to the UK livestock sector and it’s not going away any time soon.
“This disease can have serious consequences for cattle, sheep and other ruminants, affecting animal health, productivity, movement and trade, while also creating considerable stress and financial pressure for livestock farming businesses.”
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Watch the latest and previous webinars, which have covered topics such as the symptoms of BTV, the midge lifecycle and the impact of temperature on BTV transmission.
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Clare Wise went on to explain, “As the disease continues to spread at an alarming rate, it’s important to assess the risks and consider all the tools available by speaking to the farm vet. Vaccination is proving to be the most effective shield against the disease, which is spread by biting midges, and may offer greater confidence and resilience as the industry navigates the challenges the disease presents.
“We welcome the push by manufacturers to make more vaccines available.
"To reduce the risk, farmers are also moving high-risk or non-vaccinated stock away from wet, low-lying, or sheltered areas. They are also keeping vulnerable animals housed during dawn and dusk when midge activity peaks, all of which is added pressure on farmers and forage stocks during this challenging dry weather period.
“A coordinated approach across the industry will give us the best chance of reducing the impact of bluetongue.
NFU calls for coordinated BTV-3 response
“The NFU is continuing to engage closely with Defra, the devolved administrations and industry partners to ensure our members concerns are being heard.”
