The group urges farmers to reconsider using midge repellents.
Farmers are being urged to "think twice" before applying dips, insecticides or repellents to their livestock to prevent bluetongue virus (BTV) infection.
The warning comes from the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) and Control of Worms Sustainably (COWS), who say that these products are not licensed for BTV control. SCOPS added there is “no evidence" that insecticides can kill cuilicoides midges quickly enough to prevent viral infection or reduce onward spread.
Speaking on behalf of both groups, Nerys Wright said: “We understand why farmers are concerned and why they want to take some action. However, the evidence is clear: a single bite from one infected midge can transmit BTV, and there are no control or repellent methods available that will protect animals from infection.”
SCOPS also highlighted the potential environmental, ecological and resistance impacts of these products. It says that showering or jetting sheep with organophosphate (OP) products contravenes VMD regulations because they are not approved application methods.
Sheep Veterinary Society President, Phillipa Page, said: “Vaccination will protect your flock or herd, and it’s not too late to vaccinate. There are licensed bluetongue vaccines available for BTV-3 and BTV-8 through vets. Please discuss this with your vet as part of a farm-specific plan. It is important to remember that full immunity takes time to develop, approximately three weeks in sheep and longer in cattle because a two-dose primary course is needed.
“Vaccination will not provide immediate protection for the current risk period in hotspot areas, but it remains an important option to consider for all farms, as the risk period is likely to continue into late summer.”
Image © Teerapong Mahawan/Shutterstock.com
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
