UK on Alert for Bluetongue Virus Spread from Europe

Farmers urged to enhance vigilance as new strains of the animal disease pose increasing risks to livestock.

Bluetongue virus, primarily affecting livestock, has a high chance of being reintroduced to the UK from Europe due to infected midges.
The BTV-3 strain, first identified in England in 2023, has led to 126 documented cases across four counties.
No current vaccine for BTV-3 in the UK, though emergency vaccines are available in parts of Europe.
Government and APHA emphasize strict biosecurity and surveillance measures to prevent outbreaks.
Farmers encouraged to register livestock and land details with APHA for efficient response in case of an outbreak.