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This month, the government found several cases of a new “Bluetongue” virus named BTV -3 in Great Britain.
It mainly spreads through biting mosquitoes and affects sheep, cattle, other ruminants such as deer and goats as well as camelids such as lamas and alpacas.
It does not affect people or creates problems with food safety for us.
The government, however, says: “Excesses can lead to longer animal movements and trade restrictions.”
It can rarely affect dogs and other carnivorous animals if they eat infected meat (such as the afterbirth of an infected mother).
What is Bluetongue and why is BTV-3 different?
Bluetongue is a virus that causes diseases and sometimes death in animals.
The United Kingdom had a variation of Bluetongue, BTV-8 in 2007.
But BTV-3 is new and seems serious.
It was discovered in 2023 after his first appearance in the Netherlands and seemed to have been checked here first.
However, it came back in 2024 and has established itself since then.
It seems to be particularly dangerous for sheep.
The disease can lead to swelling of the nose and neck, from the eyes, nose and mouth, swelling, fever and not eat.
In the case of sheep and cows, death, birth defects, miscarriage, dead birth and weak, blind or deformed descendants can cause.
Of course, this affects milk and meat supplies.
Sometimes it can cut blood supply to the tongues of the animals (hence the name), although this is rare.
Where is Bluetongue affected in Great Britain?
All of England At the time of writing, is considered a “limited” zone.
In Scotland, Wales and Ireland there are also restrictions on movement and tests.
High -risk districts include July 23:
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East riding from Yorkshire
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Lincolnshire
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Norfolk
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Suffolk
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Essex
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Kent
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East Sussex, Pro Defra.
You can check this interactive card to find the affected areas.
What should I do if I recognize or suspect Bluetongue?
If you believe that you have discovered a case of Bluetongue, you must report it immediately because it is a strange disease.
If you suspect the blue tongue, please contact:
at once.
