There have now been cases reported in Westmorland & Furness and in North Yorkshire. In both cases, we understand single animals were traced from high-risk areas and then tested positive. The animals were culled and other animals on the farms were tested to confirm it was just that animal that was infected. As there had been no transmission, no movement restrictions have been put in place. For further information and updates on Bluetongue go to: Bluetongue Virus - Ruminant Health & Welfare (ruminanthw.org.uk).
Over 70 farmers attended our Bluetongue webinar on Tuesday evening. Speakers from the APHA shared information about how the virus spreads and clinical signs to look out for in both cattle and sheep. Gordon Hickman from Defra provided an insight into the spread of the virus and efforts to reduce its impact. Lee-Ann Oliver from The Fold Farm Vets in Northumberland joined the panel to answer questions, followed by Chris Dodds of the Livestock Auctioneers Association, who covered movement restrictions. We have received many messages from members about how useful the meeting was and a big thank you to all our panel members and everyone who attended and asked questions.
AHDB is holding weekly webinars with the latest updates about Bluetongue. The next one is on 15th October – go to Registration (gotowebinar.com).
