You may be aware of recent imports of 2 different consignments of Bluetongue (BTV8) positive cattle and sheep into the UK in recent weeks.
It is important that farmers are aware of the risk areas of where BTV is in France, what the risks are of potential importation of the virus, that the import rules regarding vaccination are followed and better still to avoid importing from these areas at all if possible.
Practicing vets have an important role to play informing clients and helping them manage potential biosecurity risks when purchasing stock.
Information is key and the map below shows where the 2018 BTV8 and BTV4 cases have occurred, and the main risk areas in France and Switzerland.
The map was produced by APHA’s International Disease Monitoring Team which post regular updates which you can check here.
It is also important that we are aware of the clinical signs of BTV infection and notify APHA if suspect cases are seen. A useful summary is provided in the this In Practice article.