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First bluetongue cases confirmed in Wales
Bluetongue has never previously been detected in Wales.
Virus detected in sheep transported from England.

Bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) has been confirmed for the first time in Wales after three sheep transported from the East of England to a premises in Gwynedd tested positive.

The disease has also been detected outside of the restricted zone in England at a premises in Bath, Somerset. As with the case in Gwynedd, the infected animal had been moved from an area where the disease is now known to be circulating.

In both cases, the infected animals have been culled and the premises placed under restrictions. Further investigations are being carried out to determine if additional control measures are needed.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has also reported that a case has been discovered in an animal imported into Devon. The other animals in the consignment all tested negative. The infected animal has been culled and the other animals will undergo repeat testing.

Farmers have been urged to be vigilant for signs of BTV-3 and to practise safe-sourcing when acquiring livestock.

Gavin Watkins, Wales’ deputy chief veterinary officer, said: “It is important to talk to your vet and practise safe-sourcing of livestock to protect our herds and flocks and keep any further disease out of Wales.

“I would urge all farmers and others who keep ruminants and camelids to be vigilant for the signs of bluetongue and to report any suspect cases to APHA immediately.

“We have been raising awareness of the disease with vets and industry and appreciate their help in communicating the risks to animal keepers in Wales.”

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

Image © Shutterstock

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Vivienne Mackinnon elected BVA Scottish Branch President

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has elected Vivienne Mackinnon as its new BVA Scottish Branch president.

Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.

In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.

Dr Mackinnon said: "I look forward to working with colleagues across the veterinary professions to improve animal health and welfare in the country and support veterinary workplaces."