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Farmers reminded of bluetongue risk
The last confirmed case in England was in March.
Cases are increasing in northern Europe.

The UK’s chief veterinary officer is urging farmers to remain vigilant for bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) after a recent increase in cases in northern Europe.

The Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium have all detected new cases of the virus, with the Netherlands alone seeing more than 200 cases. Some of the animals have shown severe clinical signs.

Although the virus is not currently circulating in Great Britain, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has said that there remains a very high probability of the disease being introduced by infected midges blown over from Europe.

The counties considered most at risk are Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent and East Sussex. Surveillance measures are continuing and some free testing has been made available in areas where the risk if highest.

Last November, the first case of bluetongue since 2007 was confirmed at a farm in Kent. A total of 126 cases have been detected in England, but there have not been any confirmed cases since March.

Jenny Stewart, interim chief executive at APHA, said: “The recent increase in cases in Europe underlines how important it is for farmers and animal keepers to continue monitoring their livestock and to take up the offer of free testing where necessary.

“APHA’s risk assessment confirmed there is a very high chance of bluetongue virus entering Great Britain this year, and our world-leading scientists, vets and field teams stand ready to tackle an outbreak of bluetongue virus and ensure farmers are kept up to date and supported.”

BTV is a notifiable disease. Any suspicion of the disease in animals in England must be reported to APHA on 03000 200 301.

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.