NFUS advises farmers to be vigilant

Schmallenberg virus (SBV) has been discovered in Northern Scotland, after a tup brought in from Shropshire tested positive for the disease.

Although the recent cold weather means it is unlikely the virus will have become established in the area, SRUC will nevertheless test contact animals, and NFUS is advising farmers and veterinarians to be vigilant for the disease.

Since positive SBV samples were found on farms in North Yorkshire and Northumberland just over a week ago, Scottish livestock producers have been advised to take up NFUS, the Scottish Government and SRUC's scheme to screen animals for the virus, if importing stock from SBV risk areas.

Nigel Miller, NFUS President and vet, said: “NFUS received news today [Wednesday 17th October] of a tup in the north of Scotland, which had been brought in from an SBV-risk area testing positive for the disease.

“Contact animals will be tested although it is hoped that the disease will not have spread. The weather has been cold recently, which inhibits insect vectors, such midges, and it is therefore likely that any potential spread will be blocked. 



“The tup’s owner is to be commended for conducting the test and the event underlines the need for all livestock farmers importing stock from SBV-risk areas to test animals for the disease.”