Three more cases of bluetongue discovered in Norfolk and Suffolk, United Kingdom

Bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) has been confirmed in three more animals on farms near Norwich in Norfolk and Lowestoft in East Suffolk. Therefore, a 20km temporary control zone (TCZ) was imposed over a wider area, and all three animals will be humanely culled to minimise the risk of onward transmission. Movement restrictions apply to cattle, sheep, and other ruminants, as well as their germinal products. On 26th August Defra confirmed the first case of bluetongue virus BTV3 in a single sheep on a farm in South Norfolk. A 20km temporary control zone was put in place around the farm near Haddiscoe. Further information on these restrictions can be found here. There have been a rising number of the bluetongue cases in Northern Europe, and the chief veterinary officer 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 ...