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Defra permits licensed use of bluetongue vaccines
Movement restrictions will still apply to vaccinated animals.
The unauthorised vaccines are expected to lessen symptoms.

The use of three unauthorised vaccines for bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) will be permitted in the UK subject to licence, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced.

The three vaccines permitted for use are Bultavo-3, BLUEVAC-3, and Syvazul BTV3. All three have been used in other European countries.

The vaccines are not expected to prevent animals from being infected by the virus or spreading it to other animals. However, the vaccines claim to reduce or prevent the clinic signs of bluetongue.

Because vaccinated animals will still be infectious, movement and trade restrictions will still apply to them.

It is expected that licences will become available in the coming days. The vaccines will have to be prescribed by a veterinary surgeon.

New cases of BTV-3 continue to be confirmed in England. In addition to recent cases in Norfolk and Suffolk, a case was confirmed at premises near Withersea in the East Riding of Yorkshire on 4 September. A 20km temporary control zone has been put in place and the affected animal will be culled.

A restricted zone is currently in place Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk. A specific licence is required to move animals outside the zone and farmers are urged to only move animals within the zone when it’s absolutely essential.

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Suspected cases must be reported on 03000 200 301 in England or 03003 038 268 in Wales. In Scotland, suspected cases should be reported to the local field services office.

More information on the vaccine permits is available here. Further information on the restrictions can be found here.

Image © Shutterstock

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Central Qualifications to attend BVNA Congress

News Story 1
 Central Qualifications (CQ) is to host a stand at this year's BVNA Congress. The awarding body will be at Stand C9 from 11-13 October.

It will discuss changes to the qualifications strategy and some new qualifications, including a top-up course for equine veterinary care, so qualified veterinary nurses can broaden their skills.

Rachael Shepherd, education consultant at CQ, said: "We are looking forward to attending BVNA Congress this year. There are exciting times ahead, with a revamp to the VN qualifications and assessment strategy and the introduction of some new qualifications." 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.