Defra declares restriction zone to prevent further BTV-3 cases
2nd September 2024
After several confirmed cases of BTV-3 at premises across Norfolk and Suffolk, the UK’s chief vet has declared a bluetongue restricted zone across the region.
Since a single case of BTV-3 was found in a sheep in south Norfolk, there are now 10 infected premises in Norfolk and Suffolk.
Disease has been confirmed in 27 animals.
The new restriction zone replaces the original temporary control zone.
As of 30th August at 8pm, all keepers of cattle, sheep, other ruminants and camelids in Norfolk and Suffolk must follow strict restrictions on animal and germinal product movements.
There is further information on the restrictions and licences on gov.uk, plus symptoms of bluetongue and how to spot it and report it.
All infected premises have been placed under restriction and susceptible animals can only be moved under licence from infected premises.
Essential moves of susceptible animals (cattle, sheep, goats, deer and other ruminants and camelids including llamas and alpacas) can take place without a licence within the restricted zone but cannot be moved out of the zone without a specific licence.
A general licence to move animals to designated abattoirs is also available.
READ MORE: Bluetongue case confirmed in Norfolk
READ MORE: Three more cases of bluetongue discovered in Norfolk and Suffolk
READ MORE: Warning issued as warm weather increases risk of Bluetongue virus transmission
Urgently act now
UK chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said:
“Following an increased number of bluetongue cases, we have declared a restricted zone across Suffolk and Norfolk.
“This means all keepers in these regions must urgently act now to both prevent the disease spreading to their herds and any further.
“Farmers are urged not to move animals within the zone unless it is absolutely necessary.
“We have not taken this action lightly and we are clear that farmers and their vets must remain vigilant and report any suspicions to APHA immediately.”
High risk of onward spread
Surveillance is underway to understand if the virus is currently circulating in the UK and the extent of any undisclosed disease.
Current temperatures and midge activity means there is a high risk of onward spread in the UK.
Cases in Northern Europe have been on the rise and the chief vet recently called for increased vigilance and responsible sourcing of livestock.
Farmers should continue to monitor their animals frequently for clinical signs and report suspicion of disease immediately.
They should also make sure their animals and land are registered with APHA so keepers can be kept informed and animals easily located.
Free testing remains available for animals moving from the highest risk counties to live elsewhere in Great Britain or to be sold at a market within a high-risk county where there will be buyers from outside the high-risk counties.
How to report BTV
BTV is a notifiable disease. Suspicion of BTV in animals must be reported to:
- England: APHA, 03000 200 301
- Wales: APHA, 03003 038 268
- Scotland: Contact your local Field Services Office
- Northern Ireland: Report to the DAERA helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.
Read more livestock news.
