NFU North Livestock Board Vice-chair Tim Dobson says that vaccination is the best protection available as cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) continue to spread across England and Wales.
Mr Dobson said: “I urge farmers to speak to their vets and get their animals vaccinated as quickly as they can. Vaccination is the best and cheapest insurance against this disease. Vaccination is quick, safe and affordable and a much better option than just rolling the dice and hoping you don’t get bluetongue on your farm.”
By the end of August, more than 600 confirmed bluetongue cases had been recorded across the country during the current vector season, with hotspots emerging in parts of southern England and growing concern about the risk of further spread into northern regions.
Spread by biting midges, bluetongue affects sheep, cattle, goats, deer, alpacas and llamas. While it poses no risk to humans or food safety, it can have severe consequences for livestock, including abortions in cows, temporary infertility in bulls and deformities in newborn calves. The disease is often fatal in sheep.
With vaccination rates still estimated to be below 10% of susceptible animals, the NFU is encouraging more farmers to discuss their vaccination options with their vets.
Mr Dobson is also urging farmers to plan ahead for the potential fertility impacts of the disease. He said: “Going into this winter, I advise farmers to get their animals scanned and fertility test bulls, because if they’re unvaccinated and you have got bluetongue circulating you will find empty cows and infertile bulls.”
NFU national Acting Livestock Board Chair and North Livestock Board Chair Clare Wise said: “The past few weeks have been a stark reminder that bluetongue poses a serious and growing threat to the UK livestock sector.
“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 a farm vet. Vaccination is proving to be the most effective shield against the disease and can help provide greater confidence and resilience for livestock businesses.”
Support is available
Mr Dobson added that support is available for farmers concerned about bluetongue and its impact. He said: “Farmers should know that help and support are available and they do not have to face this alone. Speak to your local NFU livestock representatives for advice and support. We are here to help – and contact your vet as soon as possible about vaccination."
Get the latest on bluetongue across England and Wales.
