Surge in European BTV-3 cases prompts UK warning

The UK’s chief vet has warned farmers to be vigilant as cases of bluetongue serotype 3 have risen substantially in parts of Europe over the past few weeks.

Germany and the Netherlands have gone from just a handful of new cases of BTV-3 in the past few months, to over 4,000. 

Belgium has also seen a resurgence, with 222 cases in just under a month, according to APHA’s latest outbreak assessment.

Additionally, the first ever cases of BTV-3 have been confirmed in France, Luxembourg and Denmark. And the virus strain has successfully overwintered in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium.

The surge in the number of reports in recent weeks is likely to be down to the warmer weather conditions, APHA says. 

Increased vigilance 

Chief vet Christine Middlemiss is calling for increased vigilance and responsible sourcing of livestock. 

Free testing is available for animals moving from the highest risk counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent and East Sussex to elsewhere in Great Britain.

Details of how to book a free test are available on gov.uk.

Farmers are advised to continue monitoring their animals frequently for clinical signs, and to source animals with a reliable health status. 

Speak to your private vet when importing livestock, as the situation in Europe is continually changing.

The overall risk level for Great Britain remains at ‘medium’. However, the risk of infected midges being blown over from northern Europe is variable and continues to depend on weather conditions.

In GB, the seasonally low vector period ended in March and there have been no cases of bluetongue since then. APHA says there is currently no evidence to suggest BTV-3 has overwintered here. 

Vaccine options

Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands have all approved three vaccines (Bultavo 3, Bluevac-3 and Syvazul) for emergency use. 

The vaccines do not prevent infection but are stated to prevent mortality, as well as reduce viraemia and clinical signs.

Ms Middlemiss told BBC’s Farming Today programme that it appears the vaccine has some impact but is not giving full immunity.

Live discussions are underway with farming stakeholders about whether the UK should also grant emergency authorisation.

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Suspicion of BTV in animals in England must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301. 

Keep up to date with the latest situation on www.gov.uk/bluetongue.

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