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Many farmers undecided about BTV-3 vaccination, survey finds
There have been over 160 cases of BTV-3 in the current vector period.
Ruminant Health & Welfare publishes early findings from farmer survey.

There is hesitancy about bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) vaccinations among farmers, initial findings from a survey looking at the impact of the outbreak on farmers suggest.

Over half of the farmers who responded said they remain undecided about vaccination, though a significant number, particularly sheep farmers, said that they plan to vaccinate before the next summer season.

The survey, which is being conducted by Ruminant Health & Welfare in collaboration with Flock Health Limited, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), and the University of Nottingham, has also revealed the impact that the outbreak is having on farmers.

Some have reported that it has become more difficult to sell their livestock. Another, who had experienced mortality on their farm due to bluetongue, described the experience as “horrible; physically, financially, mentally and emotionally.”

Alongside the survey, the Animal and Plant Health Agency is studying the impact of the virus on premises where it has been confirmed. Signs seen in infected animals include lameness, swollen faces, nose and mouth ulcers, drooling, breathing difficulties, nasal discharge, and mortality.

Fiona Lovatt, of Flock Health Limited, said: “We know that in Germany, the research shows a marked difference in outcomes between vaccinated and unvaccinated herds and flocks.

“Findings indicate that unvaccinated sheep flocks have experienced mortality rates as high as 30 per cent, whereas vaccinated flocks show significantly lower mortality, with some reporting only 1-2 per cent losses.

“We want to learn from this data and build a UK base of evidence that we can trust going forwards.”

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

Image © Shutterstock

 

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.