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Bluetongue Virus Hits Third Scottish Farm
14 Aug
Summary
- Potentially fatal bluetongue virus confirmed on third Dumfries and Galloway farm.
- The latest case involves a sheep, located less than 2km from previous detections.
- Veterinary chief urges vaccination amid concerns over vaccine availability.
A potentially fatal bluetongue virus has been identified on a third farm in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. This new case was confirmed in a sheep and is situated less than 2km from two previously identified cases in the same parish. All three affected farms are currently under restriction while investigations continue, including testing of other susceptible animals.
Scotland's chief veterinary officer, Sheila Voas, indicated that infected midges likely carried the bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) virus to Scotland from outbreaks in nearby regions. While stressing that vaccination is the most effective method for disease prevention, some farmers have expressed concerns about the availability of the necessary vaccine.
