From 1 July 2025, the Bluetongue Virus restricted zone will extend to cover all of England, effectively allowing farmers to move livestock throughout England without movement tests. This decision follows consultation between industry and scientists, recognising that the disease-affected area is now too extensive for movement restrictions to remain effective.
All farmers and keepers are encouraged to discuss the use of BTV-3 vaccines for their animals with their private vet. Restrictions on the freezing of germinal products within the restricted zone will remain. If you keep animals in England and routinely move animals into Wales or Scotland you need to check for updates online at GOV.WALES and GOV.SCOT on what licences you will need and whether or not you will need to organise and pay for a pre-movement test. Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Farmers should continue to monitor their animals frequently for clinical signs and report suspicion of disease immediately to APHA. APHA has published guidance for livestock owners on how to spot and report the disease.
