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Restricted zone put in place after more bluetongue cases
“Farmers are urged not to move animals within the zone unless it is absolutely necessary” – Christine Middlemiss.
New restrictions apply across Norfolk and Suffolk.

A restricted zone covering all of Norfolk and Suffolk has been put in place after several more cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) were detected in the counties.

The additional restrictions were introduced in response to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) finding evidence of some local transmission of the virus. Due to current temperatures and midge activity, the risk of onward spread in the UK is considered to be high.

The new zone, which came into force at 8pm on 30 August, replaced the temporary control zone which had initially been put in place. As of 31 August, the virus has been confirmed in 27 animals across ten premises in Norfolk and Suffolk.

Under the new rules, only essential movement of susceptible animals (cattle, sheep, goats, deer and other ruminants and camelids including llamas and alpacas) within the restricted zone can take place without a licence. A specific licence is required to move animals outside the zone.

All of the infected premises have been placed under further restrictions. Susceptible animals can only be moved from the premises under licence.

Christine Middlemiss, UK chief veterinary officer, said: “Following an increased number of bluetongue cases, we have declared a restricted zone across Suffolk and Norfolk.

“This means all keepers in these regions must urgently act now to both prevent the disease spreading to their herds and any further. Farmers are urged not to move animals within the zone unless it is absolutely necessary.

“We have not taken this action lightly and we are clear that farmers and their vets must remain vigilant and report any suspicions to APHA immediately.”

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Suspected cases must be reported immediately 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.

Further information on the restrictions and the licences available can be found here. A guide on spotting the signs of the virus is available here.

Image © Shutterstock

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Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
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.