Bluetongue cases continue to increase across England, with 2,454 confirmed cases recorded so far this season. Cumbria now has 75 confirmed cases, with 66 cases in North Yorkshire, highlighting the continued spread of the disease into the North.
If you suspect bluetongue, you can contact your vet, who can diagnose the disease based on clinical signs, and report suspected cases directly to APHA using the online reporting form. Bluetongue remains a notifiable disease, so suspected cases must be reported promptly, including in vaccinated animals.
Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect livestock from bluetongue. Farmers are encouraged to speak to their vet about vaccination and to plan ahead for next year's requirements, including ordering vaccine early to help secure supply.
The Farmer Network has also secured funding from the Royal Countryside Fund’s Emergency Grant to deliver three Bluetongue workshops this winter. The sessions will help farmers make informed decisions around livestock management, disease risk and vaccination. More details will follow soon.
