Bluetongue detected in imported cattle
Vets are urging farmers to source new animals carefully. (Stock photo)
Cattle imported from France to the UK have tested positive for bluetongue virus, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has confirmed.
The cases were detected during post-import testing, after cattle were brought to four UK farms - Preston and Kendal in England, and Stirling and Dumfries in Scotland. A total of 32 animals came from the same assembly centre in France, in an area that has seen multiple cases of bluetongue since September.
APHA says the UK remains officially bluetongue-free and exports are not affected.
Steps are being taken to prevent the spread of disease, including movement restrictions at the affected premises. These will be in place until further testing can rule out disease spread via local midges. All animals that tested positive or are at high risk of being infected will be humanely culled.
Chief veterinary officer Nigel Gibbens said: “This detection is a good example of robust disease surveillance procedures in action and should highlight to farmers the risks which come with bringing animals from disease-affected areas into their herds.
“It is also a timely reminder for farmers that the disease is still a threat, despite coming towards the end of the period when midges are most active. Keepers must remain vigilant and report any suspicions to APHA. They may also want to talk to their vet to consider if vaccination would benefit their business.”
BVA senior vice-president Gudrun Ravetz referred to the cases as “a grave and timely reminder to all livestock keepers of the importance of responsible sourcing of animals, and of fully understanding the potential disease risks of importing animals from areas where disease is known to be circulating.”
Ravetz advised farmers to source new animals in consultation with their local vet, acting within their farm health plan.
“Bluetongue virus is spread via infected midges and with the mild weather we have been experiencing in the UK this autumn it is essential that farmers, vets and government agencies remain vigilant to the threat of disease spread,” she added.
Bluetongue is not a threat to human health or food safety, but it can cause severe disease in affected animals, as well as impacting farm incomes through reduced milk yield and reproductive performance. Clinical signs include eye and nasal discharge, drooling, swelling around the head or mouth, lethargy and lameness.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
