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Welsh farmers told to be ‘alert’ about bluetongue
Wales has never had a case of bluetongue, but is now urging vigilance.

The CVO says vigilance is needed to keep the disease out of Wales.

The chief veterinary officer (CVO) for Wales has urged Welsh farmers to be vigilant about bluetongue, as cases increase in England.

There have been over 40 cases of bluetongue reported in England, with the recent cases reported in Norfolk, Suffolk and the East Riding of Yorkshire.

Bluetongue is caused by a virus, which is mainly transmitted by biting midges. It affects ruminants including cattle, goats and sheep, as well a camelids such as alpacas and llamas.

While some animals show few clinical signs, while others see productivity issues such as reduced milk yield or reproductive losses. The most severe cases prove to be fatal for infected animals.

So far, Wales has never had a case of bluetongue. However the rise in cases in England has prompted the government to call for vigilance.

On 4 September, it hosted a stakeholder workshop and vet webinar to help raise awareness  of bluetongue and its signs.

The Welsh government says that farmers can prevent the disease by making sure they source livestock responsibly, ensuring they have a reliable health status. They should also practice good biosecurity on-site and remain vigilant about reporting symptoms.

If a keeper is considering bringing in animals or biological products, such as germinal products, from a BTV disease control zone, they should always consult with their vet for the rules and risks involved.

All businesses should also prepare a contingency plan, setting their response to disease outbreaks and their inclusion in a disease control zone. This should include details of where animals are normally slaughtered, to ensure the abattoir is designated.

Richard Irvine, Wales’ CVO, said: “As bluetongue has been recently confirmed in England, I would urge all keepers to take action now to protect their herds and flocks and help keep disease out of Wales. They should also be aware of how to spot bluetongue and report any suspected cases immediately.

“Wales has never had a case of bluetongue, but with the changing situation, we are encouraging people to be vigilant and prepared for bluetongue.”

For more information visit the Welsh government website.

Image © Shutterstock

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