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UK Livestock Hit by Devastating Bluetongue
21 Oct
Summary
- Bluetongue virus infection cost one farm approximately £11,000 in lost milk.
- The disease, which does not affect humans, proved fatal for sheep and caused severe illness in cattle.
- Hundreds of farms across Somerset and surrounding counties confirmed cases since July.
Bluetongue virus (BTV) has caused significant distress and financial hardship for farmers in Somerset and surrounding regions. Sally Phillips of Burleaze Farm in Ilminster reported a devastating financial blow of approximately £11,000 due to reduced milk production after her entire herd of 130 cattle was infected.
The insect-borne virus, which spreads rapidly in hot weather, has proven fatal to sheep and caused severe illness in cattle. Numerous farms, including 350 in Somerset, 28 in Wiltshire, and 18 in Gloucestershire, have reported confirmed cases since July. The disease symptoms include fever, lameness, facial swelling, and mouth ulcers.
Veterinary professionals note that while cattle cases can be relatively mild, the impact on sheep has been severe, with some farmers likening the outbreak to foot-and-mouth disease. The virus also affects ram fertility, potentially impacting lambing percentages in the next season. Vaccinations are being strongly recommended to mitigate future spread.
Farmers like Phillips expressed feelings of helplessness, highlighting the mental and financial toll the disease has taken. The unpredictable and rapid spread of BTV this year has caught many unprepared, leading to significant losses and concerns about the long-term effects on businesses and future calving and milk yields.
