The NFU is aware that misleading information is circulating advising farmers not to shear their sheep this summer or in early autumn, in an effort to reduce the likelihood of BTV-3 infection.
The NFU is urging sheep producers to disregard this advise warning it could have serious consequences for animal health and welfare.
With high temperatures affecting various parts of the UK, shearing sheep to help alleviate heat stress is a vital part of meeting their welfare needs.
Additionally, heat stress may worsen morbidity and mortality associated with BTV-3.
Reminding producers that shearing remains an essential animal husbandry practice and, during periods of high temperatures, can be critical for animal health and welfare, Acting NFU Livestock Board Chair Clare Wise said: “As temperatures remain high across many parts of the country, it’s increasingly important that sheep producers take every practical step to minimise heat stress within their flocks. That must include shearing.
Clare continued: “We know farmers want to do everything possible to protect their animals from bluetongue, and it is understandable that questions are being asked about the best way to manage sheep during periods of heightened disease risk. But shearing remains an essential part of good animal husbandry and is absolutely vital for safeguarding health and welfare, particularly during hot weather.
“Sheep farmers should continue to work closely with their vets, maintain strong biosecurity measures and make use of vaccination as an important tool in protecting livestock.”
“Shearing remains an essential part of good animal husbandry and is absolutely vital for safeguarding health and welfare, particularly during hot weather.”
Acting NFU Livestock Board Clare Wise
Vaccine shortages
“Although vaccine availability is an issue, we know manufacturers are working extremely hard to increase supplies and make more doses available,” Clare added.
“As this virus continues to spread rapidly across the country, the NFU will continue working with government, APHA and industry partners to ensure farmers have the information and support they need to make informed decisions and protect the health and welfare of their animals.”
Strongest form of defence
Vaccination remains the best form of defence in protecting livestock against BTV-3, alongside good biosecurity, veterinary advice and careful monitoring of animals.
The NFU is encouraging producers to act now, before the bluetongue virus reaches farm gates.
- Vaccinate where appropriate, including booster vaccinations for livestock treated last year.
- Report suspect signs immediately.
- Review movements.
- Monitor stock daily.
- Reduce midge exposure.
