As reported by Farmers Guardian, as of 11th October 2024, APHA said there have been 130 confirmed reports of the virus on farms in England and Wales since August 26 in Cattle and Sheep.
Farmers Guardian (2024) Bluetongue updates: Farmers in almost 20 counties face life in a bluetongue restriction zone, 1 October. Available at: farmersguardian.com (Accessed: 21 October 2024).
What is Bluetongue Disease in Cattle and Sheep?
Bluetongue disease (BTD) is a vector-borne, viral illness that affects ruminant animals like Cattle and Sheep with the Bluetongue virus (BTV) and is transmitted by biting midges (Culicoides species).
Bluetongue is a serious concern for livestock farmers and livestock owners, particularly in warmer regions where midges thrive.
The disease is named for one of its most typical symptoms; Cyanosis, a bluetongue caused by poor blood circulation. It is, however, important to note that this symptom doesn't appear in all cases and can vary depending on animal species and the specific type of BTV associated.
How Does Bluetongue Spread?
The Bluetongue virus is primarily spread by the bite of infected Culicoides midges – small, blood-feeding insects that thrive in warm, moist environments, especially near stagnant water where they breed. The virus cannot spread directly from one animal to another without the involvement of these insects, making the disease seasonal and dependent on midge activity. A warm and wet UK summer is the perfect environment for midges to thrive.
Bluetongue can also be spread through the movement of infected animals, making it crucial to monitor and control livestock movements during outbreaks.
Symptoms of Bluetongue in Cattle and Sheep
Symptoms vary depending on the species affected. Sheep, being more susceptible, often display more severe clinical signs, while Cattle may show mild or no symptoms but can still act as carriers.
Signs in Sheep: High fever (often exceeding 40.5°C), swollen face and tongue, oral lesions, nasal discharge, lameness, breathing difficulties, weight loss, stillbirths, and in severe cases, death.
Signs in Cattle: Mild fever, salivation, oral ulcers (generally less severe than in sheep), lameness, reduced milk production, and reproductive issues including abortions or congenital defects.
How is Bluetongue Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves clinical observation combined with laboratory testing – a veterinarian will typically collect blood samples for PCR testing.
What is the Treatment for Bluetongue?
There is no definitive antiviral treatment, so supportive care is essential: fresh water, quality feed, reduced stress, anti-inflammatory drugs for fever/swelling, and antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections. Isolating infected animals and minimising movement can help prevent further spread, though controlling the midge population is the most effective way to prevent transmission.
How do I Prevent Bluetongue?
Key strategies include vaccination programs matched to the circulating strain, midge control (insecticides, draining stagnant water, housing animals during peak midge activity, using fans in livestock housing), restricting movement of livestock during outbreaks, and ongoing monitoring for early detection.
How do I Report Suspected Cases of Bluetongue?
If you suspect Bluetongue in your livestock, report it immediately – visit gov.uk/guidance/bluetongue for the latest updates from DEFRA and APHA. Bluetongue is a notifiable disease; failing to report it is breaking the law.
If you have any questions, please call our office on 01948 668100, email info@osmonds.co.uk or visit our website to view our full range for Livestock.
