What is blue tongue disease and how is it spread?

Blue tongue is a virus spread by midge bites that primarily affects sheep, cattle, deer, and goats, causing swelling and ulcers in the mouth.

What are the symptoms of blue tongue in cattle?

Symptoms in cattle include lethargy, mouth and nasal ulcers, fever, milk drop, not eating, abortion, and foetal deformities.

What should farmers do if they suspect blue tongue?

Farmers must contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) to report suspected blue tongue, and a duty vet will discuss the situation.

Home / Environment / Blue Tongue Virus Strikes Cattle in Shropshire

Blue Tongue Virus Strikes Cattle in Shropshire

1 Feb

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Summary

Blue tongue virus confirmed in Shropshire cattle.
The disease is spread by midge bites.
Cases can be devastating for farmers.

Blue Tongue Virus Strikes Cattle in Shropshire

A concerning case of blue tongue disease has been identified in cattle within Shropshire. This confirmation was made earlier this week by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

The virus, primarily transmitted through midge bites, significantly impacts sheep, cattle, deer, and goats. Symptoms in cattle are varied, including lethargy, mouth and nasal ulcers, fever, and a notable drop in milk production, alongside potential abortions and stillbirths.

This identification came after a farm in the county reported abortions and a decrease in milk yield. Farmers are instructed to contact APHA immediately if they suspect blue tongue in their livestock. Since July 2025, England has recorded 261 cases of this disease, which, while not transmissible to humans, poses a severe economic threat to the farming community.

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