Bluetongue Virus Restrictions Extended to Seven More Counties in England Amid Rising Cases

The new restricted zone now includes all of Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Greater London, Surrey, and West Sussex. This expansion follows a surge in cases, with 95 farms reporting outbreaks since late August, marking the season's first case.

Farmers within these zones are required to follow strict movement restrictions on animals and germinal products. While animals may not leave the restricted zones without a specific licence, movements within the zone are still permitted. A general licence is available for transporting animals to designated abattoirs.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer, urged farmers to stay vigilant and adhere to the restrictions, highlighting the ongoing rise of bluetongue cases in England and northern Europe.

APHA chief executive Jenny Stewart added, "It’s crucial for farmers to monitor livestock and take up free testing where needed to control the spread of bluetongue."

The government's decision to allow the use of three suppressive vaccines to manage BTV-3 aims to reduce clinical signs in affected animals but does not entirely prevent infections.

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease, and any suspicion of infection in animals must be reported to the APHA.