A new strain of bluetongue virus has emerged, casting a shadow over England’s livestock industry. Experts warn that its impact could be devastating on livestock herds across England.
The bluetongue virus, transmitted primarily by biting midges, affects ruminants such as sheep, cattle, goats, deer, and even camelids like llamas and alpacas. Bluetongue causes tongue and mucous membrane lesions, resulting in swallowing difficulties, lameness, and stiffness. These symptoms impact animal welfare and reduce milk yields.
While it doesn’t harm humans or compromise food safety, it poses a significant threat to livestock, and, if not kept under control could threaten the supply of staples such as milk and lamb.
England has already reported 126 cases on cattle and sheep farms, and concerns are cases are likely to increase over the coming months. The virus can lead to substantial losses, with approximately 30% of sheep herds dying once infected. However, cattle experience a lower mortality rate.
Farmers are urgently calling for the development of a vaccine to combat this strain. The Netherlands recently granted emergency approval for a vaccine targeting the new strain (known as BTV-3), which has caused over 6,000 cases there. Here, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is actively engaging with vaccine manufacturers to create a BTV-3 vaccine for use in the UK. Swift action is crucial to safeguard livestock and maintain food security.
